#old grudges

“What just attacked us?” Tang asked nursing his latest collection of bruises.

What had once been a humble gathering in discussing saving the world had transformed into a barely contained battleground. Everyone was gathering themselves after fighting off waves of demons and struggling to protect the dronecopter’s engines.

Mei was panting heavily as she leaned on her sword. It had taken everything she had, but she managed to protect the upper left side’s engine without killing her opponents and while protecting MK.

Their beloved Monkie Kid was struggling to come to grips with losing his powers and the staff. He could not longer tank crippling blows with minimal effort. He couldn’t fight on the front lines anymore. He was no longer an asset, but a liability.

Tang and Pigsy both worked to protect the engine of the lower left side. Tang, surprisngly, performed advanced martial arts while Pigsy showed off his skills with a wok and frying pan. The two of them managed to work in nearly perfect sync through years of bickering, but still suffered their share of hits.

Monkie King was responsible for safeguarding the entire right side. Normally this would be a simple task, but with his injuries and the fact he was fighting civilians he found it far more challenging than he’d admit.

All the while Sandy struggled to keep them in the air.

For nearly a full hour they were forced to fend off wave after wave of assaults or risk being ripped from the skies. Yet with each attack, none of the pilgrims got the sense their attackers were happy be doing any of this.

“Desperate souls seeking the keys to their chains.” Sun Wukong stated recalling the dried tear tracks on the faces of more than half the attack force.

“Translation.” Pigsy grumbled as he fussed over MK’s injuries and mental state.

“Megalopolis is a city unique in how it openly inhabits both human and demons with minimal discrimination. In many ways it is the epidemy of my master’s beliefs, but that creates a tempting target.” Wukong explained, voice turning slightly wistful at the mention of the Great Monk. His master always believed, regardless of one’s origin or ability, everyone was capable of doing good and deserved to be treated with basic decency.

He shook off his nostalgia to focus on the current dilemma. “Lady Bone Demon spent centuries honing her skills in crafting soul chains. Magical constructs designed to siphon off all aspects of the victim’s strength, tying down their very essence so that not even death can grant them freedom. A binding technique that can only be broken by a power greater than and more absolute than the caster’s will.”

With each word the group’s horror grew and grew. The King was not helping their fears.

“With MK’s power and my staff boosting her own, I’d say she was able to collar every demon in the city and sent them to hunt us down.” He finished, looking away from their terrified faces. With every word he was adding to his failure, none of them should know this fear, none should know this terror, yet due to his mistakes all he could do was watch.

“Our friends…Our neighbors…” Sandy whispered, thinking of his fellow demons who called the docks their home. The demons he greeted every time he sought out new tea blends. His fellow yoga enthusiasts. The other members of his monthly anger management group sessions. The volunteers at the city’s pet shelter. The people he grew to know and care about over decades of life.

Shackled against their will, forced to obey a true monster.

“Is it possible keep those chains off of us?” Pigsy asked, needing to know if their days as free individuals were truly limited.

“Of course. Until the bond is crafted, they’re simply chains and can be escaped just as easily. But if you are looking for magical protection, I have no idea.” A shaky laugh did nothing to dispel the growing dread and terrified/enraged looks. “I mean I do know of a spell, but I hardly have the power nor the experience to cast such a high level of divine protection.” He was always more of an appreciator of the direct approach. Didn’t need a shield if you could tear through your opponents before they could let out an attack.

His master was always the one obsessed with keeping the others safe. He could really use his master right now. With his comforting presence, soothing arura, and desire to tend to every life even if would put his life on the line. Someone to help him figure this mess out. To tell him things were going to be okay.

“I think round two’s starting up.” Tang announced as more lights appeared in the distance.

Nodding, Sandy pressed a few buttons and gripped the wheel. “Everyone, hold on to something. This is gonna get rough.”

“I’m fine.” MK assured Pigsy even as his heart crumbled under the weight of his uselessness.

Knowing the kid was lying, but unable to give him the proper attention with the approaching danger, Pigsy was forced to return to his position.

The latest assault was the worst one yet.

Whether it was due to the Monkey King’s words or the exhaustion catching up with them, their blows were not as effective. They couldn’t keep this up forever, but they didn’t have any other option.

Mei was the first to falter. Trying to protect both the engine and her friend was taxing but something felt off. With each pass of her blade, it felt like less demons were going after the engine and more were interested in going after her depowered friend.

Weakened and left with little more than a crowbar to defend himself, MK was trapped in a horrible situation. Mei knew if she moved, she’d be leaving the engine wide open, but if she didn’t MK would be killed.

The choice was obvious.

In a blaze of green lightning, Mei scattered the opposing force with powerful strikes. Scores of demons were sent hurtling overboard. MK stared at his old friend both grateful and with immense guilt.

The entire vessel lurched as smoke started pouring out of the damaged engine.

“We’re hit.” The water demon announced as he struggled to keep the massive vehicle level. An attempt that was soon rendered pointless as the second engine on the left side was damaged, this time by their own Monkie Kid trying to protect those who raised him from a group of demons aiming to take advantage of the distraction.

Sensing the craft was compromised, the invading force decided to flee for their safety. Leaving the pilgrims’ full attention on their imminent crash and how only one of them knew how to actually fly.

“Everyone inside! Now!” Pigsy shouted, furious and terrified for their lives.

Monkey King immediately grabbed his student and dashed into the main body.

“I’m sorry,” Mei said to the stubborn chef, not so much as for her actions as for the consequences. “But I just couldn’t-”

“Hey, I’d do the same.” Pigsy faced Mei with a kind smile. He saw everything. Even if he couldn’t go anything to help, he was still proud she chose to protect what was important.

A hand landed on her shoulder, revealed to be Tang who couldn’t be prouder. “We all would.”

“Alright inside all of you.” Pigsy yelled throwing them into the main compartment and closing the hatch behind him.

Being inside the cockpit unfortunately gave them an unobstructed view of how close they were to crashing into a mountain every time Sandy steered them away from crashing into a another one.

An abnormally loud clap burst from the back of the sealed room followed by a golden glow slowly spreading across the entire dronecopter.

“A barrier?” Tang observed, adjusting his glasses to make sure this wasn’t a trick of the light.

“I thought you said shields weren’t your thing.” Pigsy asked the struggling monkie.

“Just because I’m not an expert, doesn’t mean I don’t know how to cast them. My first master was adamant I learn at least the basics no matter how fast or strong I was.” Sun Wukong said, pouring more and more energy into keeping the ship in one piece.

“Sounds like a nice guy.” Sandy grunted from the wheel as he tried to keep them in the air as long as possible.

Sun Wukong was silent at that, but even at his worst the Monkey could not deny all the hard work and effort his immortal master put into preparing him to truly become more than a king.

Something was up ahead. Water. Were they that close to the ocean? Doesn’t matter. They won’t be airborne for much longer. There was only one thing he could do.

“Brace for impact!”

The dronecopter plunged beneath the waves with enough force to launch a geyser of water several stories high. The dark depths hungrily devoured the vessel as it did to a thousand others.

 Like a dying light, the golden barrier flickered, barley clinging to life. Until not even divine magic could remain alit.

The five passengers and small army of cats were alive, but their ship had sustained heavy damage and was taking on water fast. Not even two minutes in and water was up to their hips.

The windows were cracking under the intense ocean pressure, letting in even more water by the gallon.

“Well, ain’t this something. We survive a demon army and now we all get to drown!” Pigsy yelled as he tried climbing the walls to buy himself as much time as he could.

“Hey Sandy. This would be a good time for a cool water adventure vehicle, right?” Mei asked, batting away a fish one of the cracked windows dropped on her face. She was really hoping not to be the reason why her closest friends died.

From the pilot’s seat, Sandy was completely helpless as critical failure after critical failure popped up on the main screen. “I would but-This is a sky drone, its not water adventure friendly.” He was literally beating his own skull as his cats tried to comfort him, and use him as a small island.

“Monkey King! You’ve got to use your powers to get us out of here!” MK pleaded with his master.

“Huh?” Said monkey however had a much different reaction to their circumstance. He was lounging on his side, using handfuls of water to pat down his air whipped fur. “Calm down, a little water won’t hurt- Right, you lot are mortal.” For a brief moment, it was as if he forgot why he never wanted them on this journey in the first place. 

Was it an accident? Or did he truly wish to forget just how easily being close to him could get them all killed?

Suddenly the former airship took on a new rattle as a sound unlike anything that could be produced on dray land echoed through the darkness.

“What’s that?” Mei asked panicking at the deep, rattling moan.

“Something big!” MK squeaked, wondering what else the universe wanted to throw at them.

A statement which proved to be a massive understatement if the approaching shadow was any indication.

Sun Wukong looked at the large figure with a confident grin. “Everyone relax. It’s my old friend. Looks like he’s here to help us out.”

The rushing waters calmed, revealing the face of a massive dragon like beast the size of a palace with glowing purple eyes and metal shell resembling a turtle. It’s golden claws the size of houses were fully elongated and a green glow was building at the back of its throat.

Getting the sense this was not a warm welcome, Wukong felt it was best to clarify a few things. “Hmm, actually friend might~ be stretching it.”

With a single blow, the sinking vessel was launched deeper into the ocean. Until they struck land, within a massive bubble housing an entire city. Somehow they had been perfectly removed from the dying vehicle to stand before what could only be called a palace.

It was breathtaking.

Not unlike the Celestial Realm, everything felt like it belonged to another world. The flawless white walls had no trace of paint yet they seemed to emanate a slow glow. The roof tiles were the perfect shade of teal as they curved in the traditional shape accented with pure gold. Towers forged from the seafloor climbed stories in random intervals, decorated with colorful coral and glowing algae.

In the center of it all was a massive palace that bore a strong resemblance to Mei’s home. The primary difference was the massive gate artistically carved from gold at the front. Whose courtyard they were currently standing in.

“The Dragon Palace of the East Sea. We’re in the Dragon Palace of the East Sea!” Mei cheered, holding an equally ecstatic MK as they took in the majesty of the underwater city. The two young adults cheered at their good fortune.

Both at finding a potential ally and being alive.

“Yeah, this is my kinda-sorta ol’ buddy’s mansion.” Monkey King slid close, while still technically being the closest to the main doors.

“Isn’t this where you got your staff?” Tang asked, doing everything he could not to freak out about how he was in yet another legendary domain of a major mythological figure.

“Yep. Ah, good times. Good times.” Monkey King wistfully said, a spark of gold shining in his eyes.

Pigsy, however, recalled the story a bit differently. “‘Got’ or…”

“Took.” MK finished, seeing a massive flaw in their plan. “You took it. Oh boy…”

“Wait.” Sandy said. “If this is the house of Mei’s extended family, shouldn’t we have brought a gift?” He didn’t want to be rude. Plus, you never know when a little act of kindness could smooth things over. After all, they are trespassing. Technically.

“That is a good point, but it’s not like we planned to end up here.” Pigsy admitted while smiling at his old friend’s heart. If they had time, normally he would whip up one of his grandmother’s famous recipes. There was something about good food and pleasant conversation that allowed strong bonds to form even in the most unlikely circumstances. Or at least be able to tolerate one another.

Monkey King continued to wave off their worries. “Don’t worry about it. Just follow my lead and let me do the talking.” His ears twitched at the sound of doors opening “Oh, here they come.”

The gate rose revealing a humanoid figure who filled their entire courtyard with the sense of power and authority. He was joined by two guards, each wielding a golden spear, and a female demon with blue hair and fin-like ears. Stepping into the light was none other than the Dragon King of the East Sea, Ao Guang.

His human form was tall and quite muscular, sporting emerald eyes with reptilian slits. His impressive mane and beard was a lovely shade of purple, a small bun was held by two golden pieces carved to resemble horns. He was donned in a white robe decorated with elegant teal and gold designs. Wickedly sharp pieces of golden shoulder armor rested on each side, leading to an even greater intimidating presence.

“Smiles, everyone, smiles.” Wukong demonstrated taking center stage.

“Hey Ao Guang!” The simian happily greeted, turning up the cuteness factor. “Haven’t seen you-”

“Dirty Monkey!” The question was cut off by an enraged shout and the release of a draconic arura. “You dare return to my domain after humiliating me before my own court and that of my family. Taking one of the iron pillars of my treasury and turning it into a weapon.”

“Wha? But that was thousands of years ago.” Sputtering briefly, Wukong was quick to try and turn things around while keeping a happy face. “I thought we grew quite close during my journey.”

“And now I learn the Ruyi Jingu Bang hath been stolen. You have given the Lady Bone Demon exactly what she needs to destroy us all.” The ancient king stated as his true form an ivory dragon curled behind him. “Everyone’s lives are hanging by a thread due to your incompetence.”

Wukong could not say anything to counter the hurtful attacks. They were all true. Everyone was in danger because of him. This was his fault. He should have acted the moment he sensed her presence, yet he didn’t. He’d grown complacent in this peaceful era.

But that doesn’t mean he can’t work to make things right. If only he’s given the opportunity.

“I should execute you here and now!” Ao Guang threatened knowing the majority of the Celestial Realm would proudly support his decision.

“We both know that would accomplish nothing but blowing up your own house,” Wukong said, feeling pity for his fellow king. Heaven’s numerous attempts to kill him were common knowledge, along with their equal number of failures. And to immediately manifest his draconic arura? Sheesh, poor guy must have been under incredible stress to slip up this badly.

Slit pupils continued to emanate a pale green glow, yet one could say despite its divine light it grew all the more wicked. “Perhaps, but I doubt the same could be said for your companions.”

At his words, several soldiers circled the group, each one aiming their spears at their necks without hesitation. Even at little Mo.

Okay, he retracted his pity.

For one member, this was not how she envisioned her first visit to the Dragon Palace of the East Sea would go. Admittedly she thought she would be accompanied by her parents, but at the very least she never thought she’d be threated by what should be allies. The whole world was at danger and they were more interested in punishing the ones trying to stop it. With this anger, Mei drew the Dragon Blade forcing the solider in front of her to step back or risk decapitation.

But it had a secondary effect.

“Where did you get that sword?” The ancient king questioned his arura dissipating. He had seen that blade many times before, always in the claws of a relative. Yes, pale imitations have been forged in the past but none possessed the original’s purity and strength. None until this one.

Eyes darting to sides as the guards halted their progression, Mei carefully swallowed knowing her answer could change everything. “My family.” It was shaky and weak, but it was the truth and she’s had a long day. Seeing the unimpressed looks around her she followed with, “It was my ancestors.” Because it was the truth.

She was part of this family. She earned the right to wield this blade. And no one could say otherwise. And even if this dragon was her thousand times great granduncle, he would not stop her from using it to defend those she loved. It was this righteous fury that gave her the strength to bare her teeth, now fully transformed into proper fangs, at the Dragon King far stronger than herself going against every instinct she had.

Seeing a spark of true power, Ao Guang gauged the girl’s spirit with finer precision. “Who are you?”

“Long Mei.” She stated, growing more impatient and less respectful the longer she had to tolerate strangers shoving spears in her and her best friend’s face.

“I suppose it cannot be expected to recognize all your nieces.” Tang cleared his throat, stealing the guards’ attention from their cherished son and daughter towards himself. “I believe you’d be more familiar with Lady Lóng Xiǎo Jiāo.”

The levy was broken by a single name.

“Mr. Tang, a word.” The heiress growled at the use of her formal name, the name she spent so long loathing, green lightning whipped her hair around as a massive dragon curled around her.

The guards gasped at the display, a few of them dropped into a respectful bow at the sight. The signature radiating from the construct was unmistakably that of the four royal clans.

For Ao Guang, that was all the proof he needed. Only a descendent of the Four Dragon Kings could conquer such a potent display of draconic aura with such ease. Along with being able to wield the true Dragon Blade, without a doubt this was a member of his family.

§~~~~§~~~~§~~~~§

“You know when we agreed to go on this journey, this was not what I envisioned.” MK complained as he took in their prison cell.

It was dark and musky with plant life sprouting from the cracks in the walls and the ceiling. Every inch of stone was damp, despite the rest of the palace being perfectly dry, making the air feel colder than it actually was. The skeletal remains of the last occupant gave an ominous message, especially since it was still cuffed to the wall. What meager light they had came from the few dim torches placed between every three cells and the window facing the dark depths of the eastern sea.

In total, it was not a scene that inspired hope.

“Meh. You can’t always predict what life’s gonna throw your way. Besides this is a way better start than my first journey.” Monkie King said, choosing to focus on the positives. He wasn’t even stretching the truth. Compared with being tramped under a mountain and having to fight his allies before they joined their group, this was a lazy morning stroll.

Restraining himself from falling into a complete mental breakdown, MK tried to see what could be done to aid in their escape. Because while he adored Pigsy, the idea of breaking out of an ancient prison with spoons was…laughable, to be kind.

“Tang, you work with the Longs, can’t you call them and ask them to explain everything?” MK pleaded. The couple had literally called him mere hours ago.

“I would if I could. But as we all know almost drowning in salt water has consequences.” Tang said holding out a thoroughly soaked phone. His device along with all his precious contacts were all but dead until he could dry it out. Even if he could talk to the Eastern King again, without proof, anything he said would be dismissed. He simply didn’t have the pedigree or status to back up his claims.

As a further kick in the teeth, it seemed being associated with the Monkey King was igniting centuries old grudges.

“What are our chances Pigsy can dig us out while MK is still young?” Monkie King asked, fascinated by the struggling chef and his growing pile of broken utensils.

“I heard that!” Pigsy shot back, breaking another spoon. Snarling, he turned to the lounging monkey. “Last I checked you are fully capable of crumbling mountains with a pinkie, so why don’t you make yourself useful and just make an exit?”

“Can’t, doctor’s orders.” He calmly stated, showing off his still bandaged tail and head. “No strenuous activity for a minimum of 48 hours and it’s only been 37. Plus, I’ve already had to push myself with the whole army nonsense.” Not that he’d ever voice that fighting off all those demons had started to pull on his wounds and he may have possibly reopened one. It was best they didn’t know. They had other things to focus on.

“Using my instructions against me. Wow.” Tang observed in a dry tone.

“Besides, this isn’t so bad. We may be imprisoned, but it’s not like we’re being tortured.” They were essentially being left to their own devices, which easily made his top five imprisonments. “Plus, they wouldn’t harm a hair on Mei’s head.” Ao Guang would never dare risk insulting the other dragon clans with such a disrespectful act as threatening the heir to his brother’s legacy. “She’ll be treated like a princess of the highest order.” And a prime hostage they couldn’t afford to endanger.

“Which she’ll hate after an hour of pampering,” MK stated, knowing full well how much Mei hated being part of such a high-class family when it came to strict rules and traditions. It was why she insisted they use her nickname over her birth name.

Well, one of the reasons anyway.

“Have faith. She’s a Lóng.” Sun Wukong said shifting into a more comfortable position. “They have always been a reliable family. Until then, we best conserve our energy. When she comes to spring us, we cannot hesitate.”

 §~~~~§~~~~§~~~~§

Turns out running blindly in a dress you just got while holding a sword in a building you’ve never visited was harder than Mei thought.

She had to find the map, free her friends, and get the fuck out before the enslaved citizens caught up with them and turned the city into a graveyard.

Panicking, much like failure, was not an option.

She couldn’t let herself be caught. Her friends were in jail. Sandy was only free due to his cats, and his offer to clean the wreckage of their ship. And she essentially just took advantage of her thousand times great uncle’s hospitality. And locked his assistant in a closet.

She only had one shot at this.

She needed to be smart. Think like her family and choose wisely. The map had to be put somewhere safe. A place where Ao Guang would know no one would touch it, in a place he could ensure it was the real thing.

That door…

Stopping at a door that looked identical to dozens she passed, Mei couldn’t help but feel this one was different. Something was calling to her…

A deeper examination revealed the dragon’s carver around the knockers were more intricate than the others she’s seen. Then there was the two dragon statues on either side. A subtle hint to a room containing great value. Gently opening one door, she slipped inside and eased it closed.

Taking a proper look, she allowed herself a short dance of victory. All around her were ancient weapons and artifacts, either mounted on the walls or on pedestals much like her home.

Oh, that blade almost looked like the Dragon Sword, only blue. Was that the East’s version? Did each royal clan possess one?

Questions for another time.

Ha! There it is.

The map was unfolded on a pillar near the back of the room. Perfectly presented and just waiting for someone to grab it. There was even a little spotlight to give it a contrasting glow to the rest of the room.

She could already hear the word ‘cliché’ being shouted from every direction, but she had to take the risk. But before she could close the distance, she felt the roar of a dragon.

White, purple, and teal lightning struck down between her and the map, transforming into Ao Guang with his arura fully released. “It is never wise to wonder uninvited into the lair of a dragon.”

Putting on a long practiced smile Mei wondered just how she was gonna get out of this.

§~~~~§~~~~§~~~~§

“So long as we’re here, maybe we should go over your plan.” MK prodded. “You never actually explained what happens after we gather the three rings.”

Suddenly Tang shot up completely panicked. “Sweet, merciful Buddha! Ma!”

“Eh? What?” Pigsy paused in his escape attempts at the bizarre phrase.

“Ma and the other generals.” Tang started pacing as his worry grew over the new friends he made, who were surely on Lady Bone Demon’s hit list. “I’ve been so preoccupied with everything else, I completely forgot about checking in with them.”

“You’re right.” Eyes blowing wide, MK joined the scholar in his concerned frenzy. “I completely blanked on them. Do you think we’re too late?”

Wukong, however, remained stretched out on the comfortable patch of floor he found. “They’re fine. So long as we don’t take too long obtaining the fire, not a single spec of frost will touch my kingdom.”

“And how can you be so certain?” Pigsy inquired as he continued to chip away at the wall, not willing to take the King’s words at face value given where they ended up.

“As an apology for over using the fillet in the first half of our journey, my master personally crafted a massive shield array to completely surround Mount Huagou.” He could still remember his master’s embarrassment over his past behavior and his desire to ‘make amends for his foolishness’. “The more power an enemy pours into attacking my kingdom, the more powerful the shield becomes. It may not be able to stop weak demons from entering, but a being of Lady Bone Demon’s strength? Pfft. She’d never be able to pass through. Not without having to sacrifice at least half of her full power.”

And while the demoness was truly crazy, he doubted even she was insane enough to pull something like that just to slight him.

“So, they’ll all be safe?” MK pushed, eager to know the Stalwart Generals and all the little monkeys would be safe.

“Yep. So long as they stay on the mountain, they will have nothing to worry about.” Wukong happily explained, turning to his cell mates with a cocky grin. “Did you really think I’d leave my home undefended after everything they’ve endured over the millennia?

As one they answered with nothing but the truth. “Yes.”

“Okay, ouch.”

 §~~~~§~~~~§~~~~§

Mei had to admit the Dragon King of the East was powerful, but he had gone centuries with a real challenge. Whilst she was still developing her powers, it was through years of street racing that gave her the edge in speed. There was the benfit of him not wishing to hurt her, instead he was trying to use her love for her family to make her stand down.

Which first of all was a cheap tactic.

Secondly, she did love her family. She loved them more than she could put into words, but she loved her friends too. She had so many good memories with each of them. And they were counting on her to free them so they could enjoy even more time together.

No matter what, she refused to let anyone down!

With some tight maneuvers, she was able to reclaim the map, but now she had to pull off the impossible again to reach the exit.

Ao Guang thought he could talk sense into his blood relative, yet she was determined to follow that incorrigible monkey into an early grave. With that map they would only hasten their demise. Why couldn’t she understand that?

“Every word out of his mouth is a lie!” He learned long ago, while Sun Wukong was impossibly strong and had moments of kindness, he was a manipulator and a ruthless combatant at his core. Any deal was merely a new opportunity for him to screw over a new party.

“Then what is your plan?! How do you intend to kill Lady Bone Demon? Are you just going to hide down here, hoping she never looks in your direction? Are you that blind! You cannot imagine she will be satisfied with only his death!” Mei screamed. She demanded to know what was going on. If the fire was too dangerous then how did they plan to fix this mess!

Stubbornly, Ao Guang refused to answer knowing the truth would only be more heartbreaking. “Actions will be taken, but not the kind that will doom the rest of the world.”

“Like what? I barely escaped her first assault. I barely saw a fraction of what she is capable of and willing to do. And you expect me to be calm when apparently the Celestial Realm and Major Kings knew about her release for months, but don’t have an actual plan?!” Mei trembled with barely contained rage. Green lightning danced around her with more fury and wrath than ever before.

That was the source. Knowing beings far older and more powerful than her and her friends knew about this danger yet only the Monkey king bothered to do anything to stop it. Were their lives, was this world worth so little to them that they were willing to let that monster roam free?

Was there any plan, or were they expecting a couples of teenagers to hold the front line until the Monkey King pulled a victory out of thin air?

Walls became scorched and priceless antiques were shattered as the green dragon manifested. It roared against its pale counterpart with raw fury fueled by betrayal and desperation. The ivory dragon remained steadfast in its silence even as the youngling continued to challenge it.

Ao Guang had nothing to say. It was clear no words would calm his relative’s fears. He knew that from personal experience, but he could keep her safe as long as he could. However, for that to be a reality he needed to seal away that wretched map.

Reaching out to take the scroll, he was hardly surprised when Mei raised her arm to block him. Ao Guang grasped her arm, much to his regret. Both dragon aruras vanished leaving behind a vacuum of power that gave the unsettling knowledge something was very wrong.

The map pulsed in the young dragon’s grip.

Two pairs of eyes were consumed by an eerie green glow as the sound of vengeful laughter echoed in the back of their skulls.

Roaring flames

Hunger

Power beyond measure confined

Crushed and starved

Stolen from master

Reunion

Imminent

Revenge

Destruction

Death

Soon

Soon

Soon

Releasing his grip, Ao Guang stepped back in horror. “This cannot be…” Those visions, those emotions…What sort of evil was being unleashed-No! What burden had his family been cursed with?

Confused and scared and so very, very angry, Mei did the only thing she could. Clutching her fist around the map, she ran. She ran past servants and nobles, kicking up dust clouds and over turning rocks, desperate to find the others, to find something to block out those horrible thoughts.

She ran and ran and ran and ran and ran and ran.

She ran down every hall she came across, hoping it would bring her closer to the ones who helped fill her life with laughter. It made no sense how one building could be this big. From the outside, the main structure of the palace was barely two thirds the size of her family’s mansion. Yet as she struggled to find any sign of her friends it almost felt like the building was doubling in size with every turn.

“Why is the Dragon Palace bigger than my house?!” She cried in frustration.

Oh, turn right here.

Ah ha, she’d know those bulging muscles and mohawk anywhere. “Sandy.”

Rushing over to where her tea loving buddy was standing, and a bunch of guards were relentlessly pampering Mo and the other therapy cats (turns out demon guards of an undersea palace can’t resist such cuteness either), Mei was all set to preform a flying hug on the big guy when something caught her eye.

He was standing before a strangely awesome vehicle, complete with a mechanized version of Mo on the roof. It was twice the size of the dronecopter’s original main body with adjustable wheels, retractable tank-like trends, and a stylish paintjob. “What is that?!”

“Our new mobile base.” Sandy announced.

But first things first.

They couldn’t leave their fuzzy buddies behind. Which meant breaking a few bones.

“So, you made this from the smashed-up drone?” Mei questioned as the two of them entered their new base with all the little soldiers. Mei took it all in, especially all the little cat walks and beds built into the walls.

The two of them happily ignored the moans of pain from the guards, who truly weren’t that good at their job.

“Yeah, I mean I tried to rebuild our original customizations, but without your notes it wasn’t gonna happen.” Sandy bashfully admitted, even though Mei was mentally and vocally praising his mechanical skills and speed. “On the plus side, I was able to remove a lot of unnecessary weight and add a few new tricks to our arsenal.”

“Mercy,” a guard pleaded from the windshield. Huh, she really wasn’t thinking about where’d they’d end up while she was thrashing them.

Wincing, Mei activated the wipers to remove the poor guy from his spot of humiliation. After a few tries he was able to rest on the floor.

“Okay, let’s go!” Sandy shifted into high gear and with that they were on their way to find the dungeons. There was something satisfying about driving what was essentially a battle tank/safe house through a pristine palace.

 §~~~~§~~~~§~~~~§

“Alright.” After far too many spoons one would ever suspect Pigsy being able to carry on his person and what felt like an eternity a thimble size dent in the wall was starting to form. “Everyone hold tight. I’m getting us out of here in just five or six more-”

“Years?” Tang cut in having no faith in this plan working what so ever. On the plus side, his deadpan snarking did sneak a laugh out of MK. So, he counted that as a win.

Monkey King was just enjoying the show.

Pigsy turned to the unbeliever with a tired glare. “Hey. Ever hear the tale of Yu Gong moving mountains?”

Tag raised an unimpressed eyebrow at the question.

Thankfully before things could escalate everyone was alerted to a rather odd sound. It almost sounded like an engine but way more intense and getter closer.

Suddenly the wall Pigsy had been chipping away at was met with an overwhelming force. The explosion pushed every back as rubble scattered around the cell. No one was crushed by the chunks of stone, but not a single resident of the little cell could claim to be unharmed by the well-intentioned act.

At most MK could barely lift his head to meet the eyes of his rescuers.

“Mei! Sandy! You escaped! You jail breaked us! You broke the jail! Freedom!” MK excitedly shouted before falling limp back onto the ground with a wide grin.

Pigsy made a mental note to have them all checked for concussions before the day’s end.

“And I got the map, too.” Mei leaned out the window showing off her prize to the destruction before her.

Not knowing how much time they had until the guards rushed in, Sun Wukong immediately picked himself up and shoved everyone into the vehicle in a single blink.

“Mei, that outfit is fierce!” Tang claimed as he took in her new dress. One look was enough to tell him it was made of the finest materials.

“You know it. Oh, and I picked up something for you,” Mei said passing MK what she saw in the tailor.

It was a jacket, just his size. But while his old one helped remind him of the simpler times, this one had an arura of maturity and confidence.

“Sweet! I’ve been meaning to try a new look.” MK said, putting on the jacket with a flourish.

“Ready when you are, big guy.” Wukong said eager to leave his latest confinement and get back to saving the world. He didn’t want to lose this momentum.

“We’re missing someone.” Tang said sounding mentally exhausted.

“Huh?” But that couldn’t be right. He was certain he grabbed everyone. Wait. Where’s the pig?

Apparently while MK was trying out his gift, Pigsy returned to the cell to retrieve something very ‘important’. “It’s okay spoony. They couldn’t have knocked down that wall without your contribution.”

“Piggy, no time.” Mei said growing all too aware of how much time had passed since she ran from her relative.

Strapping the chef into the passenger seat and they were on their way.

“Okay, we’re escaping an underwater city…in a van…” Pigsy stated, now in a rational state of mind, before shouting, “Am I the only one seeing the problem here?”

Sandy could only laugh at his passionate friend’s reaction. “Oh, my sweet and sour Pigsy, allow me to introduce you to the Total Environment Automobile or T.E.A.”

“You just wanted it to spell tea, didn’t you?”

Sandy just smiled at his old friend. “Maybe…” He probably could have gotten away with it if his cats didn’t look like they were all smirking. “With this beauty, we will be able to handle practically any terrain.”

With the press of a touch screen, the vehicle was set for submersible travel. Outside pieces shifted as it took on a more water friendly dynamic and became airtight.

And with the palace gates wide open things were finally going their way. Or so they thought.

A single figure landed directly in front of them with tremendous force, fury pouring off them in waves. A tangible presence of barely tempered rage boiled the air around them as their targets inched ever closer.

Ao Guang lifted his head to glare at the approaching vehicle.

Fearful, Sandy hastily twisted the wheel to avoid the humanoid dragon, turning the van a full 180 degrees.

Throwing open the back doors, taking care to not rip them off their hinges no matter how satisfying it would be, the king locked eyes with the troublesome monkey. “I will not allow you to leave with that map!”

Said monkey was swiftly losing whatever patience he had left. “Are you really choosing to be this dense? The Samadhi Fire is the only option of killing the Lady Bone demon. Is your hatred towards me really worth sacrificing our one chance?”

“The Samadhi Fire has proven to be beyond control.” Even now he could remember its power, how even thousands of miles away he could sense the ravenous hunger of the flames and the knowledge nothing he could do would protect his people if it ever drew near. “Especially by one who has not even mastered mortal fire.”

Besides, the simian had much to answer for. He suspected the monkie knew the cause behind those terrible visions and why they were tied to his brother’s family.

MK rushed to his knees. “Dragon King, please! If you know of another way, tell us and we will listen.”

Mei joined in, trying to end this nonsense. “This is our only hope. You must see how desperate the situation has become.”

Suddenly the Monkey King was forced to kneel as he felt a stabbing pain behind his eyes. Visions of vile chains and crying children flooded into his mind, an army of slaves forced underwater. “They’ve found us,” Wukong said gripping his forehead.

Unknowingly, Ao Guang experienced the same images, yet not as clear. Almost as if he was caught in the vapor trail of the original message, but that did not make the meaning behind it any less real.

At his cryptic statement, everyone’s attention was draw upwards into the dark recesses of the sea. Or it once was dark. Now it was filled with hundreds of demons bound by ghostly blue chains that appeared to drain the life out of the waters around them.

“Our neighbors…” Sandy whispered in utter horror. Visions of past battles started to flash before his eyes as he took in all demons, both the old and the young, preparing to strike. The wheel creaked as his grip slowly increased and his breaths became more unstable.

Tang looked to the sonar, which revealed hundreds of unknown entities encircling the palace and were moving closer with every passing second. “If we hope to make it without entering a fight we cannot win, we need to leave. Now.” It was their only hope to avoid a second drowning attempt.

“Ao Guang, now you see a glimpse into what she intends for the world.” Wukong solemnly stated. His tail unconsciously wrapping around MK’s arm. “What will you do?” The question was but a whisper but its weight transcended reality.

The ancient king surveyed the small army of demons. A mere glance was all he needed to determine none of them were close to a threat, but that was not all he noticed. Frightened expressions, frustration burning through glowing eyes, tears blending with the surrounding water. None of the gathered demons wished to be here. They were simply civilians forced to play a part they never wanted.

Taking a deep breath, the Eastern Dragon King took in the motley collection of heroes before him. They risked much with such a dangerous weapon, but in the face of such a threat, even he could admit it was necessary. “If the Lady Bone Demon is able to shackle you in such a state, all hope will truly be lost.”

Jumping down from the T.E.A., Ao Guang stalked towards the palace gates. “I will buy you as much time as I can. Do not disappoint me, Sun Wukong.”

Before the king could go too far a young hand reached out to meet his.

Mei looked her distant relative in the eye and tried to pass on how truly grateful she was, for everything. “Thank you, great, great, thousand times great uncle!”

Even though they never met before nor did they hold the same beliefs, Mei could not deny how much he truly valued family. A mere flash of power and he was willing to take her in, keep her safe. Even now, when he did not have to do anything, he was willing to give them a chance.

For a moment, Ao Guang’s expression soften as he laid a gentle hand across his relative’s. Regardless of the passage of time or blood, she truly held her ancestor’s spirit of loyalty and protection. No matter what happened, he prayed for her safety. For her success. For their victory.

Mei returned to the vehicle and Sandy wasted no more time to get them as far away as possible from the battle doomed to end in needless blood.

As he watched the young heroes flee, Ao Guang focused on the task before him. He aimed to keep his word, which meant he could not falter.

“Out of respect for your predicament, I will forgive such a disrespectful display, but I cannot let such insolence go unpunished.” Sliding into a familiar stance, a dragon of pure ancient power tempered by eons of experience wound around the entire palace in a majestic display. “Brace yourselves.”

§~~~~§~~~~§~~~~§

In the depts of a palace carved from the heart of a mountain, a war council had been called to order. Demons, born or former human alike, gathered to discuss a catastrophe that had been plaguing the land. As one they sat with the hope of finding a solution to preserve their way of life.

This was the Mosaic Court, a collection of the most unlikely of allies brought together to make something extraordinary.

“All new reports, trade, and traffic from Megalopolis has been frozen (No, that was not a pun, Xiulan) and shut down for three days. Scouts and surveillance confirm the presence of a dangerous demon taking residence. Life has been detected but its weak and growing weaker.” Jian, a sable demon, reported. He had just spent the last two days scouting the once thriving city and keeping watch over the ever-expanding wall of ice.

“We can’t risk our scouts moving any closer. Skeleton demons have been spotted along with demons shackled by ominous blue chains.” In his written report, he did not forget to mention how what few demons who managed to escape the first wave of chains were being hunted down by more chains to join the others. Why they were being captured? He didn’t know.

If his King’s suspicions were accurate, then the victims didn’t need to be alive to feed the chain’s conjurer. This was pure sadism at best.

“Has there been any movement detected from the Celestial Realm or the Four Dragon Kings?” Guotin, a white snake demon, asked.

“Nothing atypical, as usual.” The weasel like demon responded.

“Buddha forbid they actually help of their own free will.” Siyu bitterly muttered. The lion-tailed macaque’s nose wrinkled, distorting his green marking, as he tried to keep it together.

“However, surveillance shows that the Monkie Kid, his family, and Sun Wukong were able to escape. They were last seen over China’s Eastern Ocean.” And with that, Jian’s depressing report had concluded.

“Your highness, what should we do?” Renshu, a leopard demon and the council’s resident armourer, pleaded.

The full Mosaic Court turned to the head of the table where their King sat unresponsive.

“Sir?” Guotin prodded.

Yet Macaque remained as he was. Cross-legged in lotus position as all six ears were proudly displayed, in their multi-colored glory.  

“Bàba?” Xiulan innocently asked green eyes stark against their blue butterfly-like mark.

And just like that, a pair of golden eyes snapped open.

“Don’t call me that,” Macaque said on reflex.

The rest of the table smirked at the immediate response, some of the tension dispersing from the room. The adopted Monkie siblings exchanged fist bumps underneath the table.

Groaning at the implications and for falling into such an obvious trap, Macaque rolled onto his hands as he unfolded his legs. Bouncing off his palms and landing perfectly on his throne, the council awaited his decision.

Stretching his muscles, the king looked to those who put their trust in him with utter confidence. “And as for the royal pain and my latest student, don’t worry. I doubt they’ll die so easily, but more than anything Wukong has something planned. We only need to be prepared to pick up the pieces when it falls apart.”

“Is there nothing else we can do?” Huan asked, refilling her pipe. Five fluffy tails rearranged themselves behind her to show her displeasure.

“Not yet. Until the time comes, maintain surveillance at a safe distance. Keep in contact with the courts of the surrounding areas. If the corruption spreads too close to our allies or the surrounding cities, we may have to call in a few favors for emergency teleportation circles.” Macaque listed, thinking about what else they could do to minimize casualties.

“With all due respect, can we not organize an attack now,” Ehuang said with more than a touch of bloodlust. The edges of her lavender mask grew all the more jagged, matching her bared fangs. “The longer the Lady Bone demon is allowed to spread her influence, the more energy she can gather. If we don’t cut her off, eventually only the Buddha will be able to strike her down.”

Macaque stared at one of his precocious students and children. He understood her frustration and worries all too well. Her concerns were valid, however, her ideas were doomed to failure. Macaque’s eyes roved over the council table’s only empty seat with regret.

Others followed his gaze and any further complaints were silenced.

“A full-out assault would only lead to more death. The truth is even if my natural power eclipses her own it is worthless if she is able to steal it from me. We need something that can rob her of her greatest weapon and defense.” Something Wukong was on his way to obtaining, but if his predictions were accurate, it would end in tears and rage.

That he would soothe with shadow.

“Until the time is right, we must be patient.”