Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“What did the Spider Queen have you work on?” Vicky inquired as she fiddled gently with one of John’s mechanical limbs. “Was any of it interesting? Or were you bored a lot?”

“Hmm… none of it was particularly interesting.” He said from his place at her side. “I worked on a lot of mechanical things, like the spider-bots and mech base. Lots of building and programming and fiddling. It kept me preoccupied but the working conditions were… subpar.” He grimaced slightly. “If I had to say the most interesting thing I worked on it would probably be… Oohh! the Sleep Bug app was actually very interesting to work on, if not a little underwhelming at times.” He said excitedly. “The back-end was a real challenge, but that made it fun. The front-end was severely lacking. I’m full stack and I do prefer back-end work, but this front-end was just sad. I suppose it makes sense, there's no need for a complex front-end if everyone’s too asleep to appreciate it… I didn’t do much front-end work at all under the Queen.” He mused. “My HTML and CSS is probably a little rusty… What?” He stopped his musings when he noticed Vicky smiling at him.

Vicky chuckled gently with a grin, “Nothing.” She continued fiddling with his mechanical arm. “I just… really missed you.” She smiled at him gently. “Can you tell me more about the Sleep Bug app? I’m a little lost on the jargon, but I’d like to hear more.”

John’s smile faltered slightly at the mention of jargon, one of his mechanical limbs twitching without permission as his eyes flicked downward. “Oh, sorry about that… Sometimes I forget that I’m usually the only one in the room who understands it. I didn’t mean to…” he paused as he felt Vicky’s hand wrap around his own, his eyes coming up to meet hers.

Her concerned eyes stared into his worried ones, “John, you don’t have to apologize.” She smiled softly. “I’m not upset. I think it’s really cute when you get excited about what you’re talking about, even if I don’t understand half of it.” She tilted her head slightly with concern. “You know, your extra limbs tend to curl around you when you’re upset.” She reached out and grasped one of the offending limbs, holding it gently. “What’s wrong?”

“Sorry. It’s just… the other spiders weren’t big fans of all my technical jargon.” John murmured softly, his eyes averting Vicky’s gaze. “I guess I’m just not used to being home yet. I was afraid I upset you in some way… Which, to be fair, Syntax did like to upset the other spiders on purpose sometimes. Especially Huntsman… Goodness, we really were jerks to each other…” He stopped in surprise when Vicky’s hands moved to his face, lifting it so he’d look her in the eyes.

“I’m not upset, I really think it’s cute.” She promised gently. “And you don’t have to feel bad about the past. The venom made you loyal to her, it made you forget. You weren’t yourself. And things are better now… you’re safe.” She smiled. “I understand, though, that it will take time for you to be able to fully believe that, and that’s okay. But you’re here. You’re home. That’s what’s most important.”

John could practically feel his brain short circuit, too many and not enough thoughts rolling through all at once. He settled for a soft smile, grabbing Vicky and pulling her in for a gentle hug. “I missed you there at the end, for the parts that I could remember you. And… and I believe a part of me missed you the whole time… I just didn’t know what I was missing.” He whispered softly. “I’m glad I’m home.”

“Me too.”

Chapter Text

Pigsy huffed slightly, holding MK’s hand in his own as he watched the other parents drop off their kids. Some of the kids were crying, parents too. Pigsy shifted uncomfortably. Am I really cut out for this? Dropping off a kid (my kid?) on his first day of kindergarten. What if he hates it? What if he doesn’t want to go and bursts into tears like those other kids? Or, worse, what if he does want to go, and doesn’t want to come back? Pigsy shook his head clear of the invading thoughts, breathing deeply and steadying himself. Relax, be strong. The kid is right here. He’ll do great. Pigsy sighed, turning his face towards MK as he spoke, “Okay, kiddo. Are you ready to head in?”

MK stood uncharacteristically still, his hand tightening around Pigsy’s. MK leaned into Pigsy’s side. “Do I… have to go?” He looked up at Pigsy with huge eyes, no tears, but plenty of fear. “Can’t I just stay with you forever? You can teach me to make noodles. I’ll be good, I promise.”

Pigsy’s heart broke and swelled at the same time. He doesn’t want to leave me… Oh gosh, how do I deal with this? He sighed, bending down to MK’s level and placing a hand on both of his shoulders. “Listen, MK. You are a good kid, and this is a good thing, I promise. You’ll have lots of fun here… and you’ll make new friends! It’ll be okay, and I’ll be here to pick you up at the end of the day, I promise.”

MK shuffled uncertainly, glancing between Pigsy and the door. “Are you sure I can’t just make noodles?”

“’Fraid not, kiddo.” Pigsy chuckled gently. “Believe it or not, I think you’re gonna do more with your life than make noodles. Not to say that noodles aren’t important!” He interjected quickly. “But I think there's more for you than that. You’ll do great things one day, kid. I’m sure of it.”

MK smiled softly. “Maybe I could be… an astronaut! Or… a YouTuber! Ooh! Do you think I could be a superhero?! I’d love to be a superhero when I grow up! I’d protect you from all the bad things and have lots of friends!” He finished excitedly, practically vibrating where he stood.

Pigsy chuckled. “Maybe, but even if you become a superhero and do loads of protecting… Remember that I’ll always be here to protect you too, okay?”

MK launched himself into Pigsy’s arms for a hug, “Of course, Pigsy! You’ll always be my favorite superhero…”

Pigsy choked on his breath, tears starting to well up in his eyes. Don’t cry, Pigsy. Get ahold of yourself. Pigsy cleared his throat with a grunt, releasing MK and gesturing towards the open door with a grunt. “So, you ready to go in now kiddo?”

“Yep!” MK replied with a grin, starting to head towards the door. “I’ll see you soon, okay?”

“Yep… I’ll be here.”

Chapter Text

“Hey, Uncle Macaque?” Bai He inquired sleepily.

“Yeah, kiddo?” Macaque’s tail flitted lazily as he gave the kid a half smile. Hmm... she looks exhausted. I guess it is past her bedtime… “You look like you need some sleep, ki-”

“What’s the difference… between a bicep and a tricep?”

Macaque paused before snorting in amusement. Really? The distracting questions tactic? I practically invented that tactic. He chuckled. Fine, kiddo. I’ll play your little game. “One is located on the front of your upper arm, the other is on the back. Any other life-altering questions you need to know before you go to bed?” He snickered playfully.

“Ummm… yeah. What is… your favorite TV show?” She asked, absentmindedly spinning the TV remote in her hands.

“Hmm…” Macaque grinned. “None. I’m too cool for TV ~” he purred nonchalantly.

“Liar!” Bai He squeaked. “I saw you watching Bluey yesterday.”

Macaque instantly sputtered. “I wasn’t watching it. You just left it on!”

Bai He shook her head. “Nuh-uh! You were watching it. It made you cry, I saw.”

“I didn’t cry. I was just slightly emotionally invested-“ he paused as Bai He broke out into giggles. “Hey! No laughing! I was just-“ Bai He’s laughter grew louder. “Ughh fine.” He grinned, grabbing Bai He and pulling her into a hug. “Maybe the show was okay. Now, no more laughing at my expense!”

Bai He grinned smugly at him. “I knew you liked it. Who’s your favorite character?”

“I didn’t say I liked it-“

“Who’s your favorite?” She pressed.

“I don’t-“ He stopped at Bai He’s glare. Macaque sighed. “Fiiiine. My favorites are Rusty and Bingo.” Bai He opened her mouth to speak “And!! Before you ask, my least favorite is Judo.”

“Really? I kinda thought that you wouldn’t like Muffin…”

“What?! No way! Muffin’s a hoot.” Macaque snickered. “Now,” Macaque interjected before Bai He could open her mouth again, “before you ask any more questions, it’s my turn.” He twisted Bai He around in his lap to face him. “Why are you avoiding going to sleep? It’s past your bedtime, and you’re clearly exhausted.”

“I’m not tired.” Bai He said around a yawn. Macaque cocked an eyebrow, looking thoroughly unimpressed. Bai He shrunk slightly, “Well, maybe I am a little tired… but I don’t want to sleep!”

“Can you tell me why?” Macaque inquired.

Bai He paused, “I’m… afraid I’ll have a nightmare… Also, the dark is scary. I used to not be afraid of the dark, I was very brave! But… ever since the Lady Bo…” she trailed off with a shiver, her eyes full of fear.

Macaque pulled her into a gentle hug. “Hey, kiddo, I get it. Don’t tell anyone… but I get nightmares too.” He said with a light-hearted lilt before softening. “If you ever have a nightmare, you can talk to me. Okay? And you don’t have to be afraid of the dark.” He shifted back so he could look her in the eyes, “I’m most powerful in the dark. Shadow powers, remember?” He made his eyes glow purple for effect, earning a small giggle from Bai He. “So… if you think about it. You’re actually safest in the dark because it’s easier for me to protect you there. I’ll make sure no harm comes to you in the dark, Bai He. Promise.”

Bai He smiled, the fear that had previously lined her face now gone. “Thanks, Uncle Macaque. You really are the best!”

Macaque smiled and patted her on the head. “Course, kiddo! You ready to go to sleep now?

“Yeah… but can we watch one episode of Bluey first? Just one?”

“Mmm… fine! But only because you like it! And… I get to pick the episode!” Macaque grinned, taking the remote from her hands with a flourish.

“Hey!” Bai He protested. “Mmm, fine! But next time I get to pick.”

“Sure, sure. Oohh let’s do the one where Muffin swindles that old lady.” Macaque cackled. “Classic Muffin.”

Chapter Text

Life and death are opposites, two sides of the same coin. To be suspended between them, not quite dead but not alive either, is unnatural. To be nothing more than a corpse, puppeted around by one higher than you, while your mind stays locked inside. That is a torture of a very lonely and unnatural kind.

One would expect being ripped back into life to be a relief, to be no longer caught in limbo. A smooth transition, like waking up and entering a new day. It's not like this in the slightest. To be ripped from limbo, saved from the claws of death and strings of destiny, is a painful experience. It's painful physically, to be forcefully shoved back into your own body after being locked up so long. Even more so, however, is the mental anguish. Having to attempt a new shot at life while the memories of death circle you still. To be new, but not quite remember what it is to be in the first place.

I do consider my new life a gift. But I suppose I consider it as a type of double-edged sword. I'm glad to no longer be a puppet, a mindless bringer of destruction. But being a mindful member of society? It's not as easy as it sounds.

Chapter Text

Mei swung the door to Monkey King’s hut open with enough force to crack the wall. Oops. He can probably fix that… “Hey! Helllooo?? Monkey King?” She called. She stood in the doorway for a moment, swaying on her feet, “huh, guess he’s not here.” She took a few steps inside, “Well, since you’re not coming I’m just gonna come inside!” She called. “I just came to grab a…” she paused when she saw a pile of blankets in the middle of Monkey King’s living room. The blankets were moving slightly. She moved closer, “Monkey King? Is that you?” She lifted the blanket, pausing when she made eye contact with the Monkey King, who had, in fact, been underneath the pile. His eyes were full of tears, and he looked really… out of it. Also, it looked like he’d been eating- “OMGOSH are you choking!?!” Mei yanked Monkey King out from under the pile of blankets. “DON’T WORRY I KNOW THE HEIMLICH!” She screeched. At least, I think I do… I just gotta squeeze him right?!

Wukong started struggling, trying to escape her grip, “No! I’m not- Ah! Mei, let me go!” He said as he squirmed. Mei immediately complied, dropping him onto the floor. “Oof,” he landed on his side, taking a second before rolling up to a sitting position. “I think you bruised a rib,” he whined. “You know I can’t die, right? Even if I was choking, which I wasn’t, it’s not like it would kill me.”

“So, you want me to just stand here and watch my friend choke!?” She snorted, crouching in front of the monkey with a grin, “That would be very uncool, Mr. King.” Wukong flinched slightly at that, his body tensing and tail curling around itself. She noticed tears starting to form in his eyes again as he tried to nonchalantly wipe the previous ones away. Oh… if he wasn’t crying cuz he was choking and freaking out... Then something must be wrong. She sat down, fixing Monkey King with what she hoped looked like a sympathetic smile. Fixing the feelings of immortal mystic monkeys wasn’t her specialty, but she felt up for the challenge. “Are you okay, Monkey King?”

The monkey froze, a fake smile immediately plastering itself upon his face even as his tail reached to grab one of the blankets from his pile. “Whaaat?? Pshaw! Course I’m okay! I’m the Monkey King! I was just… uhm…”

Mei fixed him with an unimpressed stare. “Y’know you’re a terrible liar, right?” He gave a weak grin in response. “Okay, okay. I can work with this.” She shifted slightly. “I will… guess! Don’t worry I’m a great guesser. I’ll figure this out.” She leaned forward, staring him down. “You… lost a fight?”

“Uhm, Mei. It’s fine. Really, I’m-“

“Okay, not that one. Youuu… stubbed your toe? Ran out of peaches? You…” Mei paused slightly when she saw the beginning of a tentative smile start to creep its way onto the king’s face. Can I guess the problem of an immortal monkey? Doubtful. Can I cheer him up? Much more likely. “Hmmm… was it Macaque? Was he mean to you? Do you need me to beat him up for ya?” She grinned, punching her fist into her palm.

Wukong laughed, his posture becoming slightly more relaxed. “No… but I’ll keep that in mind for the future.”

Mei barked a laugh. “Good, good. Just give the word and I’ll be ready. What are friends for if not to beat up meanies who hurt their feelings.” Wukong definitely flinched this time, his eyes glossing over as he started retracting into himself. Mei paused, her concern growing. “Uhm… Monkey King. I know that you kinda like to keep your cards to yourself, but… I really want to make sure you’re okay. Not just me, MK’s been real worried about you. You haven’t been hanging around much since we defeated the Lady Bone Demon… We’ve all been worried, even Pigsy has been asking about you.” She paused uncertainly, not sure how to comfort the king. “We really care about you and-“

“Why?” He interrupted quietly. His voice soft, more vulnerable than she’d ever heard him.

Mei paused immediately. “Why?” she repeated. Why do we care about him?

Wukong immediately stiffened, his eyes wide as if he’d said something shameful and his tail practically tying itself in a knot. “I didn’t mean- I-“

“Wukong,” Mei said firmly, causing his eyes to make contact with hers. “We care about you. Of course we care about you. We’re your friends. Friends care about each other and stand up for each other. Why is it so hard to believe that we care about you?” She questioned, her head tilted.

Wukong paused, his eyes hinting at a war going on in his head before he sighed, breaking eye contact and speaking softly. “You… you told me, up on the mountain… that I was hurting the people who cared about me the most. And I don’t-“ He sighed in frustration, his fist clenching. “All the people who used to care about me are either dead or have been pushed far away by my own doing. I don’t- I don’t deserve your care, I don’t deserve anyone’s care. All I do is mess everything up! I messed everything up in the past… I messed everything up with the Lady Bone Demon. I can’t keep hanging around you guys or I’ll just do it agai-“

“No!” Mei stood up, pointing at the Monkey King and fixing him with her glare. “None of that!” She crouched down, forcing eye contact with a startled Wukong. “You are worthy of being cared about. You’ve made mistakes, yeah. And you’re not always the best mentor… But you know what?? You always try. You always give stuff your 110% and do your very best. And when you mess up, you try and fix it. You’re scared, I get that. But if you let your fear win you’ll just sit in this hut and be lonely for a few hundred more years. You gotta man- err, monkey up! And stop believing the lies. Repeat after me. I am worth caring about.”

“Uhm-“

“Repeat!”

“I am worth caring about.” He mumbled.

“Good. Say it one more time!” She asserted.

“I am worth caring about.” He tried.

Mei grinned, her demeanor becoming softer. “Hey, I know that believing in yourself and crap isn’t as easy as it sounds. And ‘don’t listen to the lies’ is not fool-proof advice. But! I also know that you’re not alone. You have plenty of friends who would love to hang out with you and talk about stuff. Give us a chance and I’m sure that, eventually, you’ll actually believe us.” She grinned wryly, her voice soft but confident.

Wukong let himself smile, slowly at first but it turned into a grin. “Thanks, Mei. I… I’ll try. And I will come around more, I promise.”

Mei smiled grabbing his hand and shaking it. “Great! I will be holding you to that.”

Wukong chuckled, “Yeah, I know.”

Chapter Text

The rap of knuckles sounded on Sandy’s door. “Ello?! Anyone there?” a voice called loudly.

Sandy hummed. Hmm… I wasn’t expecting company. He made his way to the door slowly, as most of his cats seemed to currently be asleep between him and said door. “Ah, here we are.” He opened the door. “Hi- oh.” He stopped at the sight of two demons, one orange and one blue, who seemed to have gotten into a fistfight over a duffle bag. The pair immediately straightened at the sight of him.

“Woah, he is huge.” The orange one said, earning a swift elbow in the ribs from the blue one.

“What my brother means to say is hello!” The blue demon said with a grin. “I’m Yin-“

“And I’m Jin!”

“The gold and silver demons!!” They hollered simultaneously, striking a pose.

“Oh. I think I’ve heard of you guys… MK mentioned-“ Sandy started.

“Yeah, yeah. We’re pretty popular.” Yin interjected.

“Definitely. Not surprised you’ve heard of us.” Jin boasted.

Sandy started with a soft smile, “Actually, I heard that you guys have caused quite a bit of trouble in the city. Maybe you’d like to come inside and have a cup of-“

“Oh, yeah. We were the sworn rivals of the Monkie Kid.” Jin bragged.

“We were great at making trouble.” Yin added. “But. We’ve turned over a new leaf.”

“Yep,” Jin nodded.

“Our talents were wasted on troublemaking…” Yin posed dramatically.

“And the Monkie Kid threatened us…” Jin muttered quietly.

“So, we’ve found our TRUE passion!” Yin cried.

“THEATER!!” The duo cried in sync.

“Oh, well. That’s good. Good for you.” Sandy said with a smile. “But, uhm. Why are you here?” He chuckled awkwardly.

“That’s easy.” Jin said. “We’ve come to draft-“

“Recruit.”

“Recruit you! Into our play!” Jin grinned.

“Yep!” Yin said. “We need a smart cat and a dumb blue- err, a nice blue guy like yourself! So, whaddya say?”

“Oh! Well, uhm, it’s very nice of you to ask me to join. But… I don’t know…” Sandy slowed. “I’ve never even been in a play. You might be better off with someone else.”

“It’s for orphans.” Yin said.

“What?” Sandy blinked.

“The play. It’s a charity. For orphans.” Yin said again.

“Needy orphans,” Jin added.

“Well, that does sound nice,” Sandy said with a smile. “It sounds like you guys really have turned over a new leaf.”

“Yeah, it’s definitely not because that was the only gig we could get- ow!” Jin stopped as Yin jabbed him in the ribs. “I said not!!”

Yin cleared his throat, “Anyway, it’s a great opportunity for us- the orphans! A great opportunity for the orphans!”

“The needy orphans,” Jin added.

“It does sound like a good opportunity,” Sandy said with a soft grin, before looking a bit bashful. “But, I’m afraid I’ll need to decline for now. I have a lot of-“ Sandy stopped as the boys put on puppy dog eyes.

“Think of the orphans,” Jin said quietly.

“The needy orphans,” Yin added.

“Well… can you give me more details? So I can see if it’d fit into my sched-“

“Yeah! Details! We can give details!” Jin grinned. “Yin, give him the details.”

“Details! Like… we got the costumes right ‘ere!” Yin said. “Those are details.” He started digging through the duffel bag at his feet, pulling things out and holding them up. “The cat would get this coin thingy. You get a tail. And, uhhh… Here we go! Our costumes! This one’s Jin’s.”

“Hold up. How come my costume’s got a crop top?” Jin huffed. “Yours looks normal.”

“Cuz I’m gonna be the blue-haired guy.” Yin retorted. “It makes sense cuz I’m blue.”

“His hair is violet!” Jin flared.

“Eh, close enough.” Yin shrugged.

Sandy interrupted before an argument could break out, “Well, those costumes look very nice. Why don’t you two come inside so we can talk about more details? Like maybe the time and place?”

“That’s a great idea!” Jin said.

“Yeah! We need to see your cat anyway, make absolutely sure that he’s right for the role.” Yin added.

“Sounds good! I’m sure Mo would like to meet you two.” Sandy said as he ushered them inside.

“Yeah, that- woah. That’s a lot of cats.” Yin said.

“How do you remember which one is the not stupid on- ow! Yin! Stop doing that!”

Sandy sighed quietly. What have I gotten myself into…

Chapter Text

“Whatcha making?” A voice purred from Chang’e’s right

“Ee!” Chang’e cried. Whipping her head towards a now cackling Macaque.

“I don’t think that will ever get ol- oof” he paused as Chang’e crushed him with a hug.

“Mac! It’s been, like, forever!” She released him, grinning at the now startled monkey. “Where have you been? I was getting worried.”

Macaque’s tail twitched behind him, still not used to her outbursts of affection. He shrugged, “Things on earth got… intense for a little while. It’s been worked out now though. I actually came because I wanted to talk. Also, I have a favor to ask.”

Chang’e’s ears piqued in interest. Wanting to talk, that’s normal. That’s just his way of saying he wants to hang out. But a favor? That’s new. “Oohh, okay. What kind of favor?”

He waved a hand nonchalantly, “Eh, we’ll get there. What are you making?” He asked again. He leaned forward with genuine interest, his eyes on the project in front of her.

“Oh! I’m actually not making anything. Technically at least. I’m just fixing this bunny-bot.” Chang’e grinned at Macaque. “His name is Cashmere. Isn’t he so cute all tiny like this?”

“He is cute.” Macaque answered, his tail waving lazily behind him. “Why is he so tiny though? Doesn’t that make it harder for him to, y’know, guard?”

“Well,” Chang’e’s grin faltered a bit. “I wanted to talk to you about that actually. I didn’t make him tiny, MK did. MK, Pigsy, and Wukong came up to the moon a while back. They wanted a ring thing and shrunk Cashmere in the process of getting it.” She looked at Macaque to gauge his reaction. “How do you feel about that?”

“Well, it was kind of rude to shrink your bot like that… and it’s funny trying to imagine the kid stealing anything.” Macaque replied, his still eyes on the bot.

Chang’e smiled softly, “No, I meant how do you feel about Wukong being here. I know part of the appeal of coming here is that it’s always been kind of a Wukong-free zone.” She laughed quietly. “I doubt he’ll be back here, he didn’t seem to like it much. But I thought you should know he was here.”

Macaque met Chang’e’s gaze. “I don’t only come up here to avoid Wukong. I do actually like hanging out with you. It’s fine if Wukong came up here, it’s your home.”

Chang’e blushed lightly at the praise. She knew that Macaque genuinely liked hanging out with her, but it wasn’t very often that he so clearly said it. “Oh, well. I… I like hanging out with you too.” She smiled softly. “Wukong was no fun to hang out with by the way. He dissed my cooking and I kind of, uhm… yelled at him.”

Macaque barked a laugh. “Now that I wish I could’ve seen. Sounds like a blast.” He softened slightly, grinning at Chang’e. “Do you need any help? With Cashmere? I don’t know much about machinery, but I can hand you stuff.”

Chang’e grinned. “Thanks, Mac. I’d love the help.”

Chapter Text

“Why is your name the Six Eared Macaque?” Bai He questioned curiously.

“Hmm? Because it’s my name. Why?” Macaque replied.

“Because! It doesn’t make sense. You don’t even have six ears! That’d be like if I was called the Four Eared Bai He.” Bai He retorted with a pout.

Macaque chuckled. “Actually, it’d be more like if you were called the Four Eared Human.”

“What?”

“A macaque is a type of monkey.” Macaque laughed.

Bai He paused. “Wait… So your name is a lie and another word for what you are!?! That’s a horrible name!”

Macaque laughed harder. “It’s not that horrible.” He grinned, “Besides, I do have six ears. So it isn’t a lie.”

“What? Since when?? I only see two!” Bai He exclaimed, trying to push her way into Macaque’s space to get a better look at his ears.

“Woah, hold on there, kiddo.” Macaque pushed her away with a grin. “I didn’t say I was going to show them to you.”

“What?!” Bai He whined. “You can’t drop a bomb like that and then not show me!” She gave Macaque her best puppy dog eyes. “Pleeeease?”

Macaque considered with an overdramaticized thoughtful expression even as his tail flicked nervously behind him. Well… I suppose it wouldn’t hurt. And it’ll only be a few minutes anyway. Man, it’s been a long time since someone saw my ears… Macaque gave the girl a grin. “Okay, I’ll let you see. But no touching.”

She nodded excitedly. Sitting attentively and waiting with a smile on her face.

He breathed deeply, snapping his fingers and dropping the glamour around his ears, letting them unfurl from two to six. He watched Bai He’s expression as it changed from excited to surprised to something he couldn’t quite decipher.

He hummed, shifting his weight in an attempt to hide the fact that he was uncomfortable with her staring. “Doesn’t seem like a lie now does it?”

Bai He snapped back to attention at his words, immediately starting to gush at his ears. “They’re so pretty!!! And they glow! And they’re colorful!!” She leaned closer, inspecting them without touching. “Wow…”

Macaque breathed a sigh of relief even as he felt surprise wash over him. It had been a long time since his ears had gotten him… compliments. He felt some of the tension drain from his shoulders. A small smile alighted itself on his lips. “Well kiddo, inspections over. Why don’t yo-

“Why do you hide them?” She inquired.

“Huh?” He squawked ineloquently.

“They’re so pretty. Why do you hide them?” She looked at him with eyes full of genuine curiosity

Macaque felt off balance, taken off guard by the question. He felt his tail start to thrash anxiously behind him as he grasped for an excuse. “Well, kid. I- uhm…” He chuckled nervously. “It’s a long story and-“ He stilled when she wrapped her much smaller hand around his. His eyes snapped to hers to see them filled with concern. He sighed, deciding a form of the truth might be better than an excuse. “Look, kid. I don’t… really want to talk about it.” He ended in a mumble.

“That’s okay.” Bai He said with a nod and gentle smile. She hesitated before speaking again. “Could you maybe let me see them more often though? You don’t have to talk about them if you don’t want to! I just think they look nice. They suit you.”

Macaque paused, stunned but also… grateful? He chuckled quietly, his tail relaxing to a gentle wave. “Eh, probably not. But… I’ll think about it.”

Chapter Text

Free? Yes. Fixed? Most definitely not. Mayor shifted in his seat. Remember to move a little, just because you can stand completely still doesn’t mean you should. It makes people uncomfortable. Stay slightly slouched, it’s not normal to sit perfectly straight for hours on end. Resist the urge to grin, you freak people out.

“Uh, you good, Mayor?” Sandy inquired gently from his place across from him.

Mayor tilted his head, trying desperately to keep a too-wide grin off his face. “What did I do wrong?”

“Oh, nothing! You just, uh, have been making intense eye contact. Also, I had to ask you if you were okay three times before you answered.” Sandy said.

Mayor sighed. Make eye contact, don’t make too much eye contact. Sit still, don’t sit too still. Smiling and laughing are good, but not the way you do it. Mayor frowned, “Thanks for the, err, ‘therapy session’. But I better head out. I’m tired.”

“Oh, okay!” Sandy said with a soft smile. “We have a session tomorrow too, will I see you then?”

“…Sure.” Mayor couldn’t help but grimace slightly as he said it. Thankfully Sandy was too busy to notice. “Well, bye.” Mayor teleported out before Sandy could answer, breathing a sigh of relief when he appeared on the dock outside Sandy’s boat. He didn’t care if he got a talk tomorrow about how he should leave through the door or let Sandy say bye before he leaves. He was too tired to care.

Mayor let himself straighten up, the grin he’d been holding back for hours covering his face. I could teleport home, but… I really don’t want to.

He started moving forward, attempting to walk off some of his frustration. Sandy and the rest, they’ve all been so kind to me. Helping me after I was freed from the Lady Bone Demon and teaching me how to be ‘normal’. He sighed. I just… can’t. I can’t stop myself from laughing too loud and grinning too wide. I can’t stop myself from sitting too still and straight. His fist tightened. I was stuck for centuries. I may be free, but that doesn’t make me magically fixed. I don’t think any amount of ‘fix it sessions’ will change that.

He groaned, forcing his fist to release its tension. I’ll just have to keep trying. I make them uncomfortable as I am now, I’ll just have to- his thoughts were interrupted by loud laughter in the alleyway to his right.

“So close, so close!” A voice screeched. “It must be perfect!!”

Mayor stepped into the alley, too curious to not find out what was going on. A figure stood within the alleyway, they looked a bit disheveled and were coated in paint. He squashed down his grin, determined to make an okay first impression. “Hello there. What are you- MK?!”

The figure, which was indeed MK, whipped his head towards Mayor with startling speed. “Who are you? Wait! It’ll come to me… hmm. Hey! You’re that Mayor guy!” MK grinned widely, a grin that could rival some of Mayor’s best. “Sorry it took me a sec to recognize you, OG’s memories can take time to access.” He nodded as if this was completely normal, stepping back and staring at the alley wall with a crazed intensity. “What do you think this is missing?”

Mayor felt his grin start to come back, he wasn’t sure what was going on with MK, but it seemed much more interesting than a ‘fix it’ session or going home. He went to MK’s side, looking at the same wall MK was. It was a painting, an abstract one, but a very good one nonetheless. “It looks great. Maybe it could use… some blue? Near the center? I think it might even out the consistency.” He paused, “Whose memories did you say you were accessing?”

“Oohh yes!!” MK cried, immediately grabbing some paint and getting to work. “You have a good eye for this!” He painted silently for a moment, sticking his tongue out for focus. “OG,” he finally said. “Y’know, the original MK.” He stepped back from the painting. “It’s perfect!”

“Original MK?” Mayor questioned, he felt his fingers twitch. Oh, I’m still grinning. He might get uncomfortable or not realize my question is serious if I don’t-

“Yeah! The OG! I’m one of his clones. The best clone too, the one that paints.” The clone stated proudly. “You can call me Painter. Just please don’t tell OG I’m here. He’s currently looking for me.” Painter laughed too loudly, his eyes holding a crazy intensity. “I don’t know why he’s so desperate to poof me. I’ll play nicer than last time! I’ll be good, I really will! All I want to do is paint anyway, for as long as I can until I’m poofed out of existence at least.”

Wow, he really doesn’t seem uncomfortable. Maybe he- Mayor’s eyes widened even wider than their usually widened state. “Did you say poofed out of existence??”

Painter laughed. “Yeah, it’s not that bad. I’ll be back eventually.” He shrugged, “I’m a clone, it’s natural. But not yet!! I want to paint first!” His grin covered much of his face, rivaling even Mayor’s.

Mayor’s grin grew wider in return. He wasn’t sure what had happened last time… but he just couldn’t pass this up. Hanging out with someone who wasn’t completely weirded out by his grin or posture? Someone whose grin rivaled his own? He needed a break anyway. A cracked and slightly manic laugh came from Mayor. “Maybe I can help. I know a place that it will take M- OG a while to find. You can paint there.”

“That sounds great!! Thanks, Mayor dude!” Painter grabbed his paints, “Y’know, you seem cooler than you were in OG’s memories… Wanna paint with me? I got lots of paint!”

Mayor paused, his grin growing. “I- thanks! I’d like to.” His grin stayed wide, though now turning a bit more genuine. “That sounds much more fun than going home and practicing being normal.” He barked a laugh, a broken and somewhat scratchy sound. Definitely too loud.

“Youch, that sounds boring. You’ll definitely have more fun with me.” Painter grimaced even as his eyes kept their wild look.

Mayor shrugged, his fingers twitching as he answered. “It is terribly boring, and impossible. But I owe it to the others to try, I make them uncomfortable as I am now.” He teleported them to a place slightly outside city limits, with plenty of space and abandoned things that would look great with some new paint.

“Uck, that sounds terrible! You sound like OG, ‘oh, my friends will love me even if I’m off my game. No! I must never be off my game or everyone will be disappointed!’ Blah, blah, blah. In MY opinion, if they’re really your friends, then you should talk to them. They’ll probably be more accepting if you tell them all their expectations are impossible and ask for help.” Painter said as he started setting his paint up.

Mayor tilted his head, his grin a bit manic despite the doubt that flashed behind his eyes. “I don’t… know.” He sighed.

Painter shrugged, “Look, all I know is that I’m one of the parts of MK that he tries to keep from the world. The part that doesn’t fit in, laughs too loud, and is a crippling perfectionist.” The clone laughed a little too loudly, his fingers twitching slightly. “That concentrated combination of attributes makes me a bit… nuts.” He started painting, “Who knows, maybe if OG dealt with his problems instead of shoving me in the back corners of his mind and pretending I didn’t exist, then I wouldn’t pop out anytime he makes a bunch of clones. Deal with me correctly and he’ll never have to chase me across the city again.” He cackled.

Mayor stood stock still, too stunned to speak. He settled for going to Painter’s side and grabbing a brush for himself. Dealing with my problems, huh? That… does sound more promising than continuing on like this.

“Oohh, nice color choice.” Painter grinned hugely. “How long do you think we have before OG finds us?”

Mayor hummed, relaxing a little and letting himself stand as tall and still as he wanted. “Long enough.” His grin took on a definite manic look despite its genuineness. “I think you’re right. I’ll talk to them, later. Let’s paint now.”

“Sounds perfect!”

Chapter Text

“Red Son,” Mei inquired.

“What-“

“Will you toast my marshmallow?!?” Mei shoved said marshmallow in Red Son’s face, waving it erratically.

“What?” Red sputtered, shoving her hand out of his face. “We’re right by a fire. Can’t you toast it yourself?”

“No! I always mess it up.” Mei groaned, slumping against Red Son’s side. “I’m either too impatient and it doesn’t get toasted enough, OR… I burn it.”

Red Son stiffened at the sudden contact. “And I can help how? I’ve never used one of your… marshmallow impalers.” He waved his hand at said impaler.

“With your hands! Just, I don’t know, hold it and make the fire happen? Or blow on it or something?” Mei made a shrugging motion. “Wait, have you never toasted a marshmallow before?!?”

“No,” Red Son snorted. “Of course not. Why would I? Also, what if my hands aren’t clean. Shouldn’t you be concerned about hygiene?”

“Okay. One, I choose to believe your hands are clean. You’re a bit of a clean freak. Two, I wouldn’t care even if they were dirty. Germs won’t kill me. I’d kill them first!” She pumped a fist, leaning away from Red Son to grab one of her impalers and handing it to Red Son with a grin. “Third, I’m teaching you how to roast a marshmallow. It’s a completely necessary life experience and you’re not leaving today without having had it.”

He glanced between her and her marshmallow impaler. Her and her adorable stupid grin. “Fine,” he grumbled, his face reddening slightly as he grabbed the impaler.

“Great!!” Mei crowed, grabbing a marshmallow and shoving it into his hands. “Okay, first you just shove your marshmallow on your skewer. And theeeen… you hold it over the fire, like this! After that the trick is to keep it in the fire long enough to get brown, but not long enough to burn it.”

“And that’s the part you’re unable to do?” Red Son asked in deadpan, his eyebrow raised.

Mei giggled, “yeah.”

Red Son copied her movements, stabbing his marshmallow and sticking it into the flames. Mei had started humming a tune he didn’t recognize. He was content to sit in silence, listening and tapping his foot.

“Ah, dang. I burned it again.” Mei blew a frustrated breath out her nose. “How’s yours, Red?”

Red Son withdrew his from the fire and inspected it. It was a golden-brown color, far from Mei’s charcoal black one. “I think you stuck yours too close to the center of the fire,” he mused.

Mei gaped. “Red! Yours is perfect!” She started chanting, “Eat it! Eat it! Eat it! Eat-“

“Fine, fine! I’ll eat it. Just be quiet.” Red Son grumbled without any real irritation. He took the marshmallow off its impaler skewer, proceeding to pop it in his mouth. “It’s very… sweet.” He said after swallowing. “And sticky.”

“Uh, yeah! That’s the whole fun of it!” She glared at her own marshmallow as if it had offended her ancestors, “Mine is stupid.” She took it off her stick with a sigh, “can’t waste it though.”

Red Son rolled his eyes, leaning over and taking it from her hands. “I’ll eat it then, just stop complaining.” He huffed, though it contained no real traces of annoyance. He popped it in his mouth, “Huh, that one is considerably better. I’ll have to burn my next one…”

He turned to see Mei goggling at him. “What?”

“I’m not sure what’s more surprising,” she said. “The fact that you just agreed to eating more marshmallows, and burnt ones at that. Or the fact that you just ate my marshmallow, after it touched my hands.”

Red Son grabbed another marshmallow, turning away from Mei slightly to keep her from seeing his slightly embarrassed expression. “I only did that to stop your complaining,” he huffed. “Besides, your peasant germs couldn’t do any serious harm to me.”

Mei scoffed, “Really? You don’t even know the last time I washed my han-“

“Look, do you want me to toast you a marshmallow or not?” Red Son interrupted, giving her an annoyed look as he put his marshmallow in the flames.

“What?! That marshmallow is for me!!” Her face lit up. “Oh, Red Boy! You’re the best!” She flung her arms around him, immediately causing him to stiffen up and his face to redden.

“I- you- I thought the whole purpose of this was because your skills were inadequate and you needed me to do it!” Red Son sputtered.

“I do! I do need you to do it!” Mei’s eyes widened, “Oohh! I’ll make you a burnt one while you make me a pretty one! We can make our marshmallows for each other and do marshmallow swaps!!” She released her hold on Red Son, grabbing a marshmallow and skewering it with a grin. “What do you think, Red Son?”

“Sure, I guess.” he mumbled, his face becoming a deeper shade of red. “If you insist.”

Chapter Text

“Hmm… Red Son?” Mk inquired.

“What?” Red Son huffed.

“I think that if you were a Pokémon trainer, you would have a Blaze Breed Paldean Tauros.” MK said.

“… None of those words made sense.” Red Son deadpanned.

“No! It makes sense!” MK insisted before continuing excitedly. “One, it’s a fire type. And you’re, like, a fire demon so that makes sense. Two, it’s a bull! And you’re part of the demon bull family. So that makes sense too! And, three! Uhh… huh I actually don’t have a third reason. Anyway! I think it would be a great Pokémon for you.” MK beamed.

“A pokey what?” Red Son said.

“What?!? You don’t know what Pokémon is!?!” Mei gasped, setting down her phone to fully join the conversation. “Dude! That’s not okay!”

“Why does it-“

“Don’t worry! We can teach you.” MK said seriously. “We know everything.”

“Yeah! We can tell you about the types, the stats, the locations, the lore. Everything!” Mei grinned.

“So, is it a location or some type of fiery bull?” Red Son snorted.

“It’s a video game!” MK said.

“A lot of video games!” Mei added.

“They are these creatures that you catch and make battle each other. The game is called Pokémon, and the creatures are called Pokémon too.” MK said seriously with a nod. “The creatures have different types that are strong or weak against each other, and you have to build a team strong enough to beat the game.” MK finished with a grin.

“You can battle your friends too! I’m awesome at it!” Mei pumped a fist with a grin. “If I was a Pokémon trainer I would have a Rayquaza, obviously. I would also have a Growlithe! I would probably have lots of puppy Pokémon…” she trailed off.

“I would have an Infernape.” MK said with a grin. “Cuz it’s a monkey.”

Red Son blinked. “So, it’s a game full of creatures that fight each other for glory?”

“Well, kind of?” Mei replied. “Some people play it to win fights. Some like to breed Pokémon or hunt for shinies. Some people just want to collect Pokémon and have fun.”

“Yep!” MK said. “I like battling but I also like collecting fun Pokémon. It’s also fun to think about what Pokémon my friends would have in real life.”

“Oohh!! Tell me some!” Mei said. “You also think I would rock a Rayquaza, right?”

“Totally!” MK grinned. “You would definitely have a Rayquaza. As for everybody else…” He paused. “I think Pigsy would have a Heat Rotom, Tang would have a Shedninja, Sandy would have a Polteageist, and I’m not sure about Monkey King… He might have something legendary, like a Solgaleo or a Reshiram. Or he might have an Aipom.” MK shrugged.

“Yeah… that sounds about right.” Mei grinned. “So, Red. Do you want to play? I have a game you can borrow. It’d be fun~” she singsonged.

“Do I have a choice?” Red Son asked.

“No.” She deadpanned.

“Then sure, I’ll play your weird creature fighting game. But don’t get mad when I surpass you and my creatures beat yours.” Red Son challenged.

“Oh you are so on!” Mei grinned.

Chapter Text

This is going to be so awful. Nezha took a deep breath before rapping on Wukong’s door. “Wknoug! I konw yur’oe in tehre! I…” He groaned. “I need yuor hlep.”

Nezha startled when he heard loud laughter behind him. “Nezha!! You- you-“ Wukong wheezed between laughs, “you got tongue tied!?!”

Nezha turned towards the monkey with a frown. “I ddn’it cmoe hree to be mkcoed, Wknoug.” He glowered as the monkey tried to stifle more laughter. “I jsut need acsecs to yuor ‘jnuk plie’. I konw you hvae smeohtnig in trehe taht wlil fix tihs.” He finished with disdain, huffing in annoyance when he realized Wukong wasn’t even listening. “Wknoug? Wknoug!” He yelled at the monkey. “Are you eevn pyniag aentoittn?!”

The monkey roused from his thoughts, “Sorry, sorry! I just- how did this happen?!” He grinned. “You’re always so careful… I can just smell an embarrassing story behind all this.” He rubbed his hands together with a determined grin.

Nezha’s glower deepened, “Wlel, yur’oe not gniog to haer it. Now, gvie me acsecs to yuor jnuk plie.” He paused. “Psaele.”

Wukong grinned. “Sure, I’ll let you in. I probably do have something that will help. I’ll even help you look!”

“You? Hlep?” Nezha deadpanned. “I’ll do jsut fnie on my own, tkhans.”

Wukong barked a laugh, swinging his arm around Nezha’s shoulder as he started leading him to the junk room. “And make me miss out on this? No way!” He snickered. “I haven’t even heard your embarrassing story yet. Oohh, maybe I should start guessing what happened! It’ll be a long time before we find the item you need.” He laughed. “My junk pile is huge! Even if you don’t tell me, I’m sure I’ll guess the right story eventually~” He singsonged with a cheeky grin.

“I dsepsie you.”

Chapter Text

Macaque sighed, his tail swishing nervously behind him. He hadn’t heard Wukong in days. He didn’t care, but the potential ramifications of that were… bad. Hearing Wukong is bad enough, he’s loud and extremely obnoxious. But not hearing him… Macaque shivered. Some of the worst things follow Wukong being silent.

I’ll just check in on the mountain, in and out. He won’t even know I was there. Macaque breathed deeply, forming a portal and stepping through.

~ ~ ~

He’s not here. I can’t hear him… anywhere. Macaque gritted his teeth. A silent and missing Wukong was even more worrisome than a silent one. Not worried about Wukong though, just worried about whatever made him disappear. This better not be one of his sick pranks or I’ll-

“MACAQUE!!!” A small voice shouted, breaking Macaque from his line of thought. He turned his head to see one of the resident monkeys heading towards him at full speed. “You’re here!! You’re back!!!” The monkey, which he know recognizes as Apricot, quickly climbed onto his shoulder, nuzzling his face and chittering happily in his ear. “I’ve been so lonely!! My friends disappeared, my king disappeared, the king’s successor and his loud friend disappeared-“

“Hold on, hold on.” Macaque grunted, prying her from him with his tail. “Disappeared? Where? How?” MK’s missing too? I can’t believe I missed that… he hissed quietly.

“There was a scroll! And black goop! It swallowed them all… There was a lion guy here too. He… smelled funny. I didn’t like him very much.” Apricot started the ‘explanation’ with enthusiasm, but trailed off with a shiver by the end. She looked up at Macaque desperately, “You’ll stay, won’t you? Please?”

Macaque froze. Scroll? Black goop… And… no it can’t be. He felt his fur starting to stand on end, his tail would be twisting in anxious circles if it could. This… could be very bad. He looked to the desperate monkey still wrapped up in his tail, she was shivering slightly. He sighed, “I’ll stay, for now at least.” Someone needs to keep an eye on this place in Wukong’s absence… And this is as good a place as any to keep an ear out for trouble. Besides, I can’t leave her all by herself. He growled lightly at himself. He had a soft spot for the monkeys, he couldn’t help it.

Apricot beamed, springing from his tail and latching onto his head again. “Thankyouthankyouthankyouthankyou-“

“Okay. That’s enough.” He interrupted with a growl that held no malice. His tail swished behind him, his mind still trying to piece together what was going on. “How long has it been since everyone… disappeared?” He tried.

“A long time! 30… days? Years? Seconds?” Apricot trailed off. “I’m bad at time. But the sun has risen and set a couple times.” She added helpfully. Her paws started playing in Macaque’s fur anxiously. “Monkey King told us before he went on vacation… he even had MK checking in on us. But now they’re both gone and I don’t know what’s gonna happen…”

Macaque’s tail twitched behind him. “Let’s find something to eat. I’m hungry.” He was, in fact, not hungry. But food would be the easiest way to get Apricot to relax.

Apricot immediately brightened. “Oohh!! You like plums right? I know where the best fruits are! I’ll show you!!” Apricot leapt from her perch atop Macaque’s head, sprinting into the trees. Macaque followed easily, not needing help to find fruit, but willing to let her take the lead since it made her feel useful.

“Here we are!!” Apricot beamed proudly, gesturing to the fruit tree she sat in.

“Thanks.” He settled on one of the branches, grabbing a plum and sinking his teeth in. Apricot settled next to him, eating a fruit of her own as she relaxed.

This… is most likely very bad. He sighed. Hopefully I can stay out of it, whatever ‘it’ is. But, for now… he glanced at Apricot. I’ll stick around. Keep an ear out, or four, and keep an eye on this place.

Chapter Text

New group chat created: Traffic Light Trio

Red Son: Traffic Light Trio? That’s a stupid name.

MK: I LOVE IT 🤩 Cuz of our colors right??

Mei: DING DING DING!! YOU WIN

Mk: WOOOOOO

Red Son: Why have I been sucked into this?

Mei: We’re planning our costumes for trick or treating! 🤭👻

Mk: YEP! We thought it’d be fun to have a theme

Red Son: Trick or treating?

Mk: Red Son, DO YOU NOT KNOW WHAT TRICK OR TREATING IS!??!!

Red Son: I know what trick or treating is, you imbecile. I mean why am I being involved in this?

Mei: You’re part of the group now dude!! We will drag you kicking and screaming if we have to 😈

Red Son: Can’t you just buy candy? Why go through all the trouble of dressing up and traveling?

Mei: Because it’s FUN Red Boy you will come. And you WILL have fun 😡

Red Son: Fine, I’ll come. But I’m not dressing up.

Mk: YOU GOTTA DRESS UP ITS THE BEST PART! Plus, you get more candy if you’re dressed up 😅

Mei: YESSSSSS and we want ALL THE CANDY!!! Buckets and buckets of candy 🤤

Red Son: Neither of you need that much sugar.

Mei: WE DO You’ll see Red Boy!

Mk: What should we dress up as??

Mei: Grrrr IDKKK 🫠 What r some cool trios?

Mk: We could be those three wizards? One is a girl and one has glasses 🤓

Mei: what about Batman, Robin, and Batgirl?

Mk: Oohh! If we do that can I be Batman??

Red Son: I am NOT wearing tights.

Mei: Fine fine no bat trio. But you have agreed to a costume I see 👀

Red Son: You are insufferable.

Mk: WHAT ABOUT ROCK, PAPER, SCISSORS?

Mei: OHHHH THAT MIGHT BE FUN! I’ll add it to the ideas list 🤩

Mk: WE COULD DO MINIONS? Or maybe the three musketeers?

Mei: WE SHOULD BE WAVY TUBE PEOPLE LIKE AT THE CAR LOTS

Mk: YES

Red Son: You can’t be serious.

Mei: They have them in our colors too!! ITS PERFECTION

Mk: I LOVE IT

Mk: GOLD MEDAL FOR MEI!

Red Son: No.

Mei: ITS DECIDED!! We shall be a trio of beautiful wavy tube people!!!

Red Son: I’m NOT doing that!

Red Son: Dragon girl, I refuse to wear that.

Red Son: Hello??

Red Son: Mei, please.

Mei: 🤭

Red Son: You two are the worst.

Chapter Text

“Go check on the kid.”

“What?” Nezha turned towards the dark furred simian that had appeared at his side.

“The kid.” Macaque waved in the direction of a little girl sitting with her back pressed against some rocks. “You’re like, the diety of children or whatever, right? You should go check on her.”

Ah, the host. She seems… anxious. I don’t blame her. Nezha frowned sympathetically. Poor thing. “Yeah, I’ll go che-“ Nezha turned to see the simian nowhere in sight. He sighed, rolling his eyes and heading to the girl. Macaque, master of disappearances…and a general annoyance.

Nezha made it to the girl. She seemed a bit agitated, picking at her nails and rocking slightly. Nezha crouched in front of her, smiling gently. “Hello, I’m Nezha. Are you feeling okay? Is anything broken?” The girl shook her head, making eye contact and pausing in her rocking. She’s not scared of me, that’s good. He sat down, “What’s your name?”

“Bai He,” the girl mumbled.

“Thats a nice name.” Nezha smiled. “I like your headband. Believe it or not, pink is actually my favorite color.” He gestured to his pink attire. Bai He relaxed a little, giggling quietly and leaning forward.

“Thanks… I like your shoes. Do they work like roller blades?” Bai He asked softly.

“I think they’re better than roller blades.” Nezha grinned. “Would you like to come with me and join the rest of the group? They’re all super nice.” Even if some of them bug the crap out of me. “I think someone’s making some food too.”

The girl hesitated. “Are they… mad?”

“Mad?” Nezha tilted his head.

The girl shivered slightly, avoiding Nezha’s gaze. “Are they mad at me? Because of all the Lady Bone Demon stuff?” She met Nezhas’s eyes again with tears in her eyes. “I didn’t mean to. I promise! I just wanted to find my cat and- and-“ she broke off into quiet sobs.

Nezha felt as if his heart were splintering. “No, Bai He,” he placed a hand on her shoulder, “nobody’s mad at you, I promise. It wasn’t your fault. None of it was.” I wonder just how much she remembers… Gosh, she’s going to need intense therapy after this- oh! “There’s a cat over there, if you want to see him.” Nezha added quickly in an attempt to appease the crying girl. “He’s super nice, I bet he’d love to meet you.”

Bai He had quieted down to sniffles. “You think so?” She looked past Nezha at the group. “Okay… that sounds nice.”

“Good.” Nezha smiled gently, standing and helping the girl to her feet. Her hand stayed in his as he led her to the group.

“Will the nice monkey be there?”

“The nice monkey?” Goodness, nice is the last word I would use to describe Wukong… “Yeah, he’s over there.” Nezha gestured to the orange furred simian. “Why-“

“No. Not the sad, yelly one. He’s scary. The other one.” Bai He corrected.

“The- what?”

“Not the orange one.” Bai He said. “I heard him some… in her head. He was sad and angry. He yelled a lot… he cried a lot too. He’s a little scary… I meant the one who saved me. He was black, and he had a cape. Like a superhero!” Bai He added.

Nezha looked at the girl in a kind of awed shock. She must have been more aware than I realized. That’s… really sad. “You must mean Macaque. He’s… uhm. Hopefully he’ll be there too.” Nezha gave what he hoped looked like a hopeful smile. Macaque, huh. No wonder he was worried about her. Saving her… he always did have a soft spot for kids.

“I hope so.” The girl said quietly. She looked at Nezha, “will you stay with me? Once we get to the group? Can you sit with me, please? I- uhm… I have questions to ask you.”

Nezha smiled. “Of course I’ll stay. What kind of questions?”

The girl grinned, “Umm, can you do a cartwheel? Even in your special shoes?”

Nezha laughed, “Yep. Wanna see?”

Bai He grinned, bouncing slightly. “Yes! Yes, I wanna see!!”

Nezha smiled. She’s definitely been through a lot… there’s nothing I can do about that. But if I can make her smile, make her feel a little safer right now… then I will.

Chapter Text

This won’t help. They’re going to lose. Nezha watched as the Monkey King and his little gang trained. They looked hopeful, determined. Nezha frowned, his fist slightly clenched. I’ve spent my life training, putting in the time and effort to protect my emperor… I had an army at my side and I failed. They stand no-

“Meow?” The blue giant’s cat (Mo?) mewed gently, pushing his face against Nezha’s closed fist before settling in his lap with a purr. Nezha balked slightly in surprise, unclenching the offending fist and watching the cat purr idly.

I didn’t even realize he was up here… Maybe I’ve just lost my edge. Weak and injured. He sighed, reaching to pet the cat hesitantly. Mo enjoyed this, leaning into Nezha’s touch and purring loudly. Nezha couldn’t help but give a small smile.

“Gone soft, Nezha?” Macaque chuckled, rising from the shadows to watch the training.

Nezha scoffed and crossed his arms. “Weren’t you the one toting around fifty baby monkeys earlier?” He snarked back.

Macaque’s fur raised. “They are not babies,” He hissed in annoyance. “They-“ he paused when he noticed Nezha’s smug look. “-I’m not helping my case.” He growled as he trailed off.

Nezha returned to watching the training, his hands absentmindedly returning to petting Mo. “It’s a lost cause,” Nezha mumbled. “They can’t win.”

Macaque’s tail twitched behind him, his eyes still on the training grounds. “They’re pretty good at lost causes. The fight against the Lady Bone Demon was a lost cause, and she fell.” Macaque tilted his head slightly. “I think they stand a chance. They have to. Otherwise…” He trailed off.

“Otherwise, it will be the rest of the world that falls.” Nezha finished quietly.

Chapter Text

“The sun has baked me aliiiive.” MK groaned, pulling himself onto the lounge chair beside Wukong’s. “Whyyyyy…”

“Maybe if you’d used sunscreen-“

“I did use sunscreen!”

“AND let it set!” Wukong huffed. “Then maybe you wouldn’t be covered in burns right now.”

MK made a pained noise of dismissal. Wukong rolled his eyes, lounging back into his chair and grabbing another peach pop.

“I saw Macaque over here earlier.” MK mentioned. “Are you guys cool now?”

Wukong paused to consider. “We’re not not cool. Currently at least.” He shrugged.

MK shifted nervously. “Okay. I- uhm… have some questions. About things I saw in the scroll.”

“Oh.” Wukong shrunk in on himself slightly. I kinda expected him to have some questions. But… his tail flicked anxiously. I don’t even know what he saw. What if he saw something terrible? What if he’s upset with me? I’m terrible at explaining myself… Urgh I hate this feeling. He growled quietly at himself.

“Most of them have to do with what happened between you and Macaque though… So I understand if you don’t want to talk about it.” Mk shifted in his seat, looking over at Wukong. “I guess I just don’t understand. You guys were best friends, brothers. I don’t…” he trailed off.

Wukong watched MK fidget with his floaties, he sighed. “What happened between me and Macaque is… complicated. And, yeah. I don’t really want to talk about it right now. But!” Wukong paused, mentally hyping himself up to finish his sentence. “If you have any other questions, I can try and answer them.” Wukong gave what he hoped was a comforting smile.

MK grinned back. “Thanks, Monkey King. I don’t think I have any other questions right now… we weren’t in the scroll very long before we found you. But if I think of any I’ll let you know.”

“Sounds good, bud.” Wukong relaxed slightly. Good. He didn’t see anything too scaring and think that I’m a complete fool. He knows by now that I’m a pretty big one, but he really doesn’t need to know how big. Wukong smiled, “want another popsicle? I brought tons~” He singsonged, trying to push one into MK’s face.

MK laughed, pushing Wukong away. “No! No more! You’ve already shoved four down my throat, I’m gonna be sick!”

Wukong laughed. “Bah, you mortals and your weak stomachs.”

“Hey!” MK cried in mock offense. “I’ll have you know that for a mortal stomach I have one of the strongest around! I’m super strong!”

Wukong laughed, a true grin splitting his face. “I know, kid. I know.”

Chapter Text

Macaque shivered, curling in on himself. I hate being cold. He growled lightly. No amount of blankets ever seemed to warm the chill within him, the chill the Lady Bone Demon had left behind. He felt fine most of the time. But sometimes, like now, it was almost unbearable. He curled in on himself further.

“Macaque… are you okay?”

Macaque shot up instantly, his gaze on the concerned little girl across from him. “Oh, kiddo. I- uhm… yeah. I’m fine.” He gave an entirely unconvincing smile. Bai He stared back, concern etching her features.

Macaque sighed, he knew a battle he couldn’t win. He patted the spot next to him. Bai He smiled, climbing up next to him and waiting expectantly. “I’m just… cold. But I’m fine! Honest.” He gave a more honest, albeit tired, smile.

Bai He watched Macaque carefully, her face circling through multiple emotions before landing on something like understanding. “I get cold too.” She whispered. “Sometimes it’s pretty bad, blankets don’t help.”

Macaque felt himself tensing up, a cold dread completely unrelated to LBD settling his bones. How could I- Of course this doesn’t just affect me!! How could I have been so stupid!? She was the host! How could I have not realized-

“Hugs usually help though!” Bai He interrupted Macaque’s spiral. “Do you want a hug?”

“Wha- hugs?” Macaque asked ineloquently.

“Yeah!” Bai He grinned. “Hugs always help me feel better.”

“I- kid…” Macaque paused. “I didn’t- I’m really sorry, Bai He. I didn’t realize you felt this way too… I should have.”

“It’s okay.” Bai He smiled. “Anytime I was cold I’d just ask for a hug, and you’ve always been happy to give me hugs. You’re always here for me, and you listen when I’m scared! So it all worked out.” Her grin brightened.

Macaque’s features softened as he chuckled. “I don’t deserve you, kiddo. Thanks, I’d love a hug.”

Chapter Text

“Oh, the traitor returns.” The Mayor gave an unsightly grin. “Come to gloat? Or maybe you want something else?”

Macaque hissed. “I’m only here to deliver you back to the others so they can decide what to do with you. Consider yourself lucky that I’m not the one making any decisions.”

“Lucky me.” The Mayor gave a mocking grin.

“You’re lucky you’re not dead.” Macaque hissed. “If I were in charge you would be.”

“So you’ll follow the orders of the Monkey King and his little gang? Grab their prisoners… follow their decisions?” The Mayor tilted his head, his grin an unwavering and uncomfortable constant. “Isn’t that how you died in the first place?”

Macaque growled, his fur standing on end. “Don’t test me, puppet.” He spat. “Just because you followed the bone demon’s every whim doesn’t mean that I’ll honor ‘the little gang’s’ decision to bring you back in one piece.”

The Mayor continued as if Macaque hadn’t spoken, his mocking grin fixed firmly on his face. “Yet you wouldn’t help her. After she saved you… Gave you a second chance at life.”

“She was going to destroy the world!!” Macaque flared. “Saving me from dying or not, I was never going to follow her. I’m not like you.”

“She didn’t save you from dying. She saved you from death.” The Mayor corrected.

“Dead. Dying. Who cares! There’s barely a difference.” Macaque growled, his tail thrashing behind him.

“There’s a big difference.” The Mayor hissed between a crooked smile. “Dying is a process. A path that can be slow and painful, or quick and merciless. Dying is something I’ve experienced. Too many times…” He broke off into jagged laughter, only continuing after it subsided. “If you’re dying there’s still hope. Hope that things won’t end in death. That’s what death is, an end. An end… and a new beginning I suppose. I’ve never experienced death. Her chains were too tight. Kept me here… kept me barely alive.” He broke off into more laughter. “If you could even call this alive. I’m not sure what I am anymore.” He gave a crooked smile. “Funny, isn’t it? I thought if anyone would care about the specifics of death, it would be you.”

“I hope you’ve had your fun.” Macaque hissed through gritted teeth. “Because once I drop you off with the others, I will never see you again.” He growled forcefully. “For your sake, I suggest you try and make sure that happens.”

The Mayor laughed, a crazed and broken sound. “You think I’d look for you? When you died, no one looked for you. No so-called friends were concerned, only me. And I only looked for you because she needed you. Now she doesn’t, no one does. You’ll live and die as you did before… alone.”

Chapter Text

This should work… Especially if I change this. Great! That will-

“Syntax?”

Synatx jolted slightly in surprise, turning towards the intrusion with a hiss. I hate being interrupted. It’s so- dang it. He sighed, making an effort to appear non hostile. “Yes, Goliath?” I can’t be mad at him. It’s like being mad at a puppy. A giant puppy.

Goliath perked up. “Sorry for interrupting, Syntax. I didn’t mean to disturb you, honest! I was just delivering something.” He handed over a container that was completely dwarfed in his huge hands. “The Queen wanted me to give it to you. You’re new so you didn’t have any yet… But now you do!” He finished with a grin.

“Thank you, Goliath. What… er. What is it?”

“Oh! It’s- uhm… I can’t remember what it’s called. But it’s basically lotion? Our skin gets really dry so it helps keeps it moist.” Goliath shrugged.

I hate the word moist. “Thanks, Goliath. Sounds useful.”

Goliath grinned, “No problem, Syntax! I’ll leave you to your important stuff now. Sorry again for interrupting. See ya!”

Syntax offered a wave as the giant left. I didn’t sign up for being infected with the Queen’s venom. And I definitely didn’t sign up for gaining what is essentially two spider siblings. But… Goliath is admittedly not terrible-

“Hey! Nerd! Where are you!”

Huntsman, however, is the absolute worst.

Chapter Text

“I brought snacks! None of them are peach flavored.” MK added before Wukong could interrupt.

“But peach flavored snacks are the be-“

“Nope!” MK gave Wukong a pointed glare. “You only have peach flavored snacks. Ever! I’ve hit my limit! I’m maxed out! Soo…” MK grinned. “I brought new snacks for you to try! And you will try them.” He threatened.

“Fine, fine! I’ll try your inferior snacks.” Wukong rolled his eyes. “But just know that I’m not happy about it.”

“I’ll take what I can get.” MK hummed. “Here, try this.” He shoved a snack cake into Wukong’s hands. “It’s a Swiss Roll. You’ll probably like it, it’s sweet.”

“Sure, bud. Whatever you sa- woah.” He paused once it actually hit his tongue, quickly shoving the rest in. “Dat was acceptable.” He said as he chewed. “Give me more.”

Maxed Out
He said I was perfect
He said I could win
She said he was incorrect
She said it with a grin

She proved I was weak
That I was not enough
She cemented my losing streak
Proved I wasn’t tough

Thought if I worked harder
Then I could pull through
But I couldn’t harm her
That was when I knew

I was maxed out
I was never enough
She proved all my doubt
She was too tough

Chapter Text

“You’re, uhm, doing real good there, bud.” Wukong gave a strained smile.

“No. He’s doing pretty terrible.” Macaque shoved a fistful of chips in his mouth. “Ech, these are gross, Wukong.”

“You realize you don’t have to be here, right?!” Wukong huffed before turning back to MK. “Try again, kid! You’re getting better!”

“Landing is haaaard.” MK whined, pulling himself out a MK-sized divot in the ground. “You make the cloud look so easy.”

“Yes, I do.” Wukong preened. “But it takes practice!” He gave MK a hard look. “So keep trying.”

“Fine…”

“He’s crashed like twenty times.” Macaque said to Wukong around a mouthful of chips.

“He’ll get it. He’s actually not doing too bad.” Wukong returned.

“True. You were pretty terrible there for a while.” Macaque snorted.

“HEY! I wasn’t terrible!” Wukong’s huffed, crossing his arms with a pout. “I was really good.”

“You crashed into that gross swamp tree-“ Macaque started.

“But-“

“Fifty times.”

Wukong paused. “It wasn’t that bad-“

“In the span of two hours.” Macaque deadpanned.

“Well- I- Hey! Why are you still eating my chips!” Wukong deflected, grabbing said chips from Macaque. “You don’t even like peach flavored stuff.”

“Yeah, they’re pretty gross.” Macaque picked at his teeth.

“THEN WHY ARE YOU EATI-“

WHAM!!

Macaque flinched. “Oops. Think the kid ‘landed’ again.”

“Hey guuuuys??” MK called. “I’m kinda stuck… A little help?”

Wukong sighed, “He’ll get it. One of these times… Hopefully.”

Chapter Text

“Ha HA!! Aced it! I win again!!” MK crowed, stepping back from Monkey Mech and doing a victory dance.

“You remember you’re supposed to be teaching me, right?” Red Son deadpanned, hitting MK with an unimpressed glare.

MK immediately paused, “Heh, oops. I completely forgot. Sorry, Red Son.” He smiled, “I’ll be a better teacher this round, promise!”

Red Son rolled his eyes, readying himself for round two. “Whatever, Noodle Boy. Just get this thing started.”

MK immediately obliged, hopping over to the cabinet and starting a new round. “If you put your hands in this position it’ll be easier to hit the buttons. There- yep! You got it! You’ll master this in no time I’m sure!!” MK grinned.

“I hope so.” Red Son muttered, his eyes on the screen.

“Soooo… why do you want to learn so bad? You’ve seem pretty serious about needing to learn and master it.” MK inquired curiously. “I thought you weren’t very big on video games. Or, at least, you haven’t played many-“

“I’m doing it for the Dragon Girl.” Red Son interrupted, hoping the truth would shut MK up. “Now be quiet so I-“

“You’re doing it for Mei!?!” MK squealed. “Oh. My. Gosh! You can’t leave it at that!! Why?! Is that why you’re so keen on mastering it?!” He gushed.

Red Son stiffened, immediately regretting his choice of words. “Im not doing it for her!” Definitely not because it’s her favorite game and I want to play it with her… “She likes this game. So I need to be good enough to crush her at it.” I actually only need to be good enough for my losses to not be completely embarrassing. She’s way too good for me to win right now... “So shut up and keep teaching me.”

“Okaaay.” MK chirped unconvincingly with a smug grin. “Whatever you say, Red Son.”

“Shut up, MK.”

Chapter Text

“Is she unharmed?” Macaque asked tersely.

Ao Lie laughed, “Duh! I promised I’d keep her safe, silly!” He shifted a sleeping Bai He in his arms. “I think I tuckered her out though. We had a great day!”

Macaque’s tail swished anxiously behind him. “Thats good. So you didn’t do anything dangerous then?”

“Nope!” Ao Lie grinned. “I was super careful, just like you told me to be! I’d love to watch her again sometime if you need the help!” He handed Bai He over gently.

“Hopefully I won’t need it.” Macaque accepted Bai He in his arms, instantly relaxing. He looked at Ao Lie’s dopey grin, his tail flicked. “That wasn’t meant to be rude.”

“Pff, I know.” Ao Lie waved a hand. “You just have trouble trusting people, it’s totally fine!”

Macaque’s unglamoured ears flicked. I always forget how perceptive he is.

“If it makes you feel better I can tell you what we did today!” Ao Lie grinned. “We went to the park, she showed me how to use the swings. Ooh! Then we got ice cream! That was fun. We also went shopping, she got you a present. Don’t tell her I told you though! She wants it to be a surprise. But I know you hate surprises.” He added. “Oh! And I gave her a ride! As a horse! Not a dragon.” He quickly added at Macaque’s alarmed expression. “It was totally safe, promise!”

Macaque felt more of the tension leaving his muscles, a sigh of relief escaping him as he gave a small smile. “Thank you, for watching her today. It sounds like you two had a great time. Sorry for being so weird about it. I just-“ He paused, trying to word his feelings. He was getting slightly better at that. At putting his feelings into words and then actually using those words to communicate. “I don’t know… I guess I just have trouble trusting people, like you said. And I hate that I needed help today. I hate needing help.” He ended in a slight growl.

“That’s okay! But if you ever do need help don’t hesitate to let me know! Everyone needs help sometimes. And I’m more than happy to help!” Ao Lie gave one of his dopey grins.

Macaque chuckled, his frustration leaving him. “Thanks, I’ll try to keep that in mind.”

Chapter Text

“Syntax, I need your help.” Huntsman growled. “And you know I hate saying that. So help me without being smug and I’ll leave you alone for the rest of the day.”

Syntax looked up from his work, an eyebrow raised. “All day? You’ll be nice and leave me alone?”

“…Yes.” Huntsman grunted.

“Hmm… make it two.” Syntax grinned.

“Fine! But no being smug!” Huntsman growled.

Syntax squashed his grin, “Yes, yes. No being smug. What do you need?”

Huntsman sighed, bringing out a device. “It’s one of the wrist thingies the queen had you make. The one she made me use. It’s broken. Maybe something’s wrong with the battery? I don’t know. But I need you to fix it.”

Syntax worked to keep his grin squashed, taking the device and turning it in his hands. “I thought you hated that she made you wear this…?”

Huntsman looked away. “It’s… useful enough. Sometimes. Can you fix it?”

“Oh, definitely.” Syntax hummed. “The problem isn’t with the battery, it’s properly charged up. The problem is with the-“

“No nerd talk.” Huntsman interrupted. “Just fix it.”

“Fine, fine. I’ll work on it.” Syntax nodded.

“…Thanks.” Huntsman said after a moment. “I’ll come pick it up later then.”

Syntax turned to see Huntsman leaving, a surprised expression coloring his features. Thanks? That’s a new one… Maybe we should do truces more often.

Chapter Text

“Once upon a time there was… something big!” Bai He giggled as the shadows on the wall shifted into a bigger shape. “And that something was a unicorn!” The shadows shifted into a unicorn, much to Bai He’s delight.

“Hmm. Good start, kiddo.” Macaque hummed, shifting slightly to make Bai He more comfortable in his lap. “I think your story will need more than one character though?”

“Yes! More characters!” The girl hummed thoughtfully, a grin crossing her face. “On the unicorn was a hero.” A bandana wearing hero appeared atop the unicorn. “No. A monkey hero.”

“Okay.” Macaque snorted in amusement. “Thats easy enough I guess.” The shadows shifted.

“Not that one. I want this one to have six ears, no fancy headbands.”

Macaque cocked an eyebrow, his tail twitching in surprise. “But I’m-“

“My story! My rules!” Bai He interrupted.

“I- okay then.” The shadows shifted to her request.

“The hero and the unicorn went… on a quest! To defeat an evil demon and… save a princess!” She hummed thoughtfully. “The demon and the hero got in a big fight, but the hero won with his spiky staff!” Bai He said triumphantly, giggling gleefully as her story played out in front of her.

“Then the hero freed the princess. She was just a kid, but she was a tough kid.” Bai He’s eyes held a determined glow. “The hero was tough too, but he was also super kind. He told the princess that he’d keep her safe and that they’d be best friends! And then they lived happily ever after! The end!” She grinned, watching her story come to a happy conclusion.

“That was… a very good story.” Macaque said guardedly, his tail swaying behind him as he tried to swallow a lump of emotions. A bit too good. His tail twitched, Let’s take the focus away from my feelings, eh? He grinned, “It’s almost as good as one of mine.” Bai He immediately turned to face him with a comical expression.

“What?! I think it was at least as good!” She huffed. “Yours are usually sad. Mine had the best ending ever!”

Macaque balked slightly, his rebuttal instantly dying on his tongue. So much for distracting me from my feelings… His shock wore off to a smile and he chuckled, “Yeah, kiddo. You’re right. Yours definitely did have the best ending. I liked it a lot.” He smiled warmly, “Tell me another?”

“I will. But only to prove what a master storyteller I am.” She grinned.

“‘Course, kiddo.” Macaque smiled.

Chapter Text

“I hate being split up.” Red Son grumbled.

“Well maybe if you stopped complaining and walked a little faster we could get this over with.” Macaque rolled his eyes. “Mei will still be there when we meet up again.”

“What- I didn’t-“ Red Son sputtered, his face taking on a red hue. “I didn’t say anything about her!”

“You didn’t have to. It’s pretty obvious.” The monkey gave a smug grin, watching as the fire demon pouted, his face turning a darker shade of red as he grumbled incoherently.

Macaque cocked his head, his eyes taking on a curious look. “Hey, fire kid. You wear a glamour, I didn’t notice before now.”

“Well, duh.” Red Son huffed. “My father is a bull demon. The glamour is to hide my tail and horns.”

“And you’re hiding them because…?”

“Well- I-“ the fire demon paused. “I have to earn them.” He said earnestly. “To do something really great! Something that will truly earn my father’s respect… Then I’ll be able to wear them proudly.” He nodded determinedly

A flash of annoyance crossed Macaque’s face. “Earn them? They’re your birthright!” His tail lashed behind him. “Aren’t you the one who built the machine that lifted the staff?”

“Well-“

“Aren’t you one who freed your father from under the mountain?”

“I-“

“Didn’t you help the heroes against the Spider Queen? They couldn’t have done that without you.”

Red Son gawked at the monkey. “Listen, kid.” Macaque pinched the bridge of his nose, taking a deep breath. “No one else should determine your worth. No one. If you’re gonna base your worth on other’s opinions, then you’ll never measure up. If your father can’t see your worth, then he’s a fool.” Macaque ended in a growl.

Red Son stared at the monkey, speechless. His mouth opening and closing a few times before he could form words. “I- Why do you care?”

Macaque fur raised slightly. “I- I don’t! You just… remind me of someone else.”

Red Son paused. “Well… I disagree about my father being a fool. He’s the best in this or any other realm! But… I’ll think about what you said.” He finished quietly.

Macaque’s tail flicked in surprise. “Oh… Well, good.”

Chapter Text

“Monkey King? When will I… uhm.” MK paused, twisting his hands nervously. Wukong looked at him curiously, silently urging him to continue. MK took a breath. “Do you think I’ll ever be strong enough?”

“Strong… enough?” Wukong questioned, tilting his head. “For what?”

“For- for everything!” MK said, tears starting to prick his eyes. “I’ve lost so many times… And even when I do win- it’s seems like it’s never enough! It’s always so close… Next time I might not be strong enough.”

“Kid…”

MK turned away. “Sorry, I don’t-“ He stopped as Wukong’s hand came onto his shoulder.

Wukong waited to speak until MK looked him in the eyes. “You are strong kid. I think you’re stronger than me, actually.” He gave a soft grin. “You don’t fight alone, you fight with a team. You always work your hardest to protect others. Sometimes too hard if I’m being honest...” He scratched the back of his neck with a chuckle. “But, MK. I truly believe that you are strong, and that whatever comes your way… you’ll be able to rise to the challenge. We will be able to. You’re not alone, kid.”

MK stared, his eyes watering. “I-“ He paused. “Thanks, Monkey King.” He flung himself into a hug, sniffling slightly.

“Oh!” Wukong stiffened slightly before relaxing, returning the hug with a chuckle. “No problem, kid.”

Chapter Text

“I wanna arm wrestle.”

Red Son looked up from his phone, “What?”

“I wanna arm wrestle.” Mei repeated, shifting in her seat beside him.

Red Son raised an eyebrow. “And you want to arm wrestle because??”

Mei groaned, flopping against him. “Because I’m boreeeeeeed. And winning makes me feel good.”

Red Son tried to not stiffen up. “Win? Ha! You definitely wouldn’t win against me.” He boasted.

Mei rolled her eyes. “Really? Why? You secretly a world class arm wrestling champ?” She teased.

Red Son snorted. “Maybe. You don’t know everything about me, Dragon Girl.”

“Okay then, Mr Big Shot! Let’s do this! Prepare to crumble before my will!!” She crowed, a grin on her face.

Red Son tried to squash his smile. “Pff, sure. But I assure you I will be the victor here.” He gave a cocky grin.

“Bring it on, Red Boy.”

Chapter Text

Bai He’s Diary
DO NOT READ
(unless you are Bai He ;) )

I stepped into an alley. And then I died.

Okay, so. I didn’t really die. But what did happen certainly felt like dying, and pieces of me did die that day. Like the pieces that believed that everything would always work out, that everyone had good in them, and that adults could protect me from all harm.

I guess everything did work out, kind of. I’m happy now at least. But things aren’t the same as before, they never will be. I’m kinda glad about that tho?

Like, I was happy before. I had an okay life and I saw the wonder in everything. I don’t see that anymore. The Lady Bone Demon completely shattered my worldview and innocence. But, I’m not alone in that!

The guy who’s taking care of me, he goes by Mayor, she broke him too. She broke him worse actually, physically and emotionally. He looks pretty rough without his glamours. He’s super awesome tho!!! He’s really nice and he takes good care of me. He does have a hard time, he’s been through a lot. But if he has the strength to keep fighting and take care of me, then I can be strong too. We make a pretty good team.

Also, he got me a cat!! I named my cat Mr. Fluffy. Cuz he’s fluffy. I’m kinda getting off topic lol. The point of this diary is to write down my feelings. Mayor said it might help me work through them. I think it’s a great idea! Since it helps him I’m sure it will help me too. His ideas are always super good.

Anyway, my feelings are kinda complicated? I’m sad about what I’ve lost. But I’m happier being with Mayor then I ever was at the orphanage. Soooo I guess I’d say that I’m glad I died in that alley, cuz I’m happier now. But I miss thinking that the world was mostly perfect and happy and safe. And lonely I guess. I used to be really lonely. I’m not lonely anymore though so that’s good.

I thinks that all I’m gonna write today. I’m tired. If you’re not me and you read this diary entry even tho I specifically said not to… then be ready to face my wrath :)

Chapter Text

“Okay, get up.”

“What?” MK asked groggily, blinking at Wukong as he rubbed his eyes. “What are you doing here? Isn’t it like… super early?” He slurred.

“Nope!” Wukong popped the p. “Not that it matters what time it is. What matters is that you get some sleep.”

“…then why’d you wake me up?”

“Cuz your bed looks awful! How do you even sleep like that?? Don’t worry, I’ll fix it.” Wukong grinned, using his tail to rip MK from his bedding and placing him on his back. His tail wrapped around MK to keep him in piggy-back position.

Wukong immediately got to work, tearing into MK’s mostly-made bed and turning the blankets and pillows into a circular mound-like mess. “Ta-da!!” Wukong seemed immensely pleased, placing MK in the pile and crawling in beside him. “This is much better.”

“You… unmade it?” MK asked, laying on top of Wukong without question. If he wants to lay in this bed concoction and get sick, that’s fine by me. I’m honestly too tired to care. Plus he’s warm and cozy… MK started drifting off.

“Unmade?!” Wukong’s voice startled MK out of his drowsy state. “It’s very well made! You-“ Wukong paused. “Huh… I guess you’ve been sleeping like a human haven’t you?”

“What else would I sleep like?” MK tried to snark back, but it mostly came out in a slur.

“Like a monkey! Duh.” Wukong chuckled. “Man… I guess I have a lot to teach you about monkeys. Now that I know you’re one too- which is totally awesome by the way. There’s so many things you gotta know!! Like, for example, I arranged your bed to be more like a nest. Lots of monkeys like sleeping in nests, like me! Also, most monkeys prefer sleeping in groups. So I’m gonna stay with you to-“ Wukong was cut off by a snore. He looked down to see MK fast asleep, clinging to Wukong’s fur.

Wukong chuckled, “Yeah, yeah. You’re sick, I keep forgetting.” He curled around MK, making sure the kid would be kept warm. “I’ll teach you some monkey stuff another time.”