#Ironbullshipping | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

chaozsilhouette · 2 years

Text

Dominion of the Iron Bull

Since Macaque isn’t hunting down the group, I couldn’t think of anyone else who could pull off the same separation trick he pulled. This left time for the group to restock and gather themselves after the chaos I unleashed last chapter (I’m not sorry).

In previous chapters, I discussed demon courts and how royalty is more than a title. Those with power are expected to be able to protect and provide for their subjects, in addition to keeping order. In canon, we are never shown a city under the domain of the Iron Bull Court, meaning it was only a matter of time before I had the idea and ran with it.

§~~~~§~~~~§~~~~§

For so long, the thought of reaching civilization was practically a dream, but when they gazed upon the carefully organized buildings and bustling streets, Team Monkie Kid could finally breathe easier. There was no sign this city had learned of the Lady Bone Demon’s attack, meaning they would be spared from the chaos at least for a few more days. But they could be overtaken at any moment, so time was of the essence.

Although they tacked on one more errand once they stepped outside the T.E.A.

Yeah, turns out they desperately needed a shower. Mercifully the local hot springs were open and not too expensive. Everyone agreed an hour was more than enough, both to relax and take advantage of their private baths. Feeling refreshed, they were ready to carry out their assigned roles. However, now that they could focus on something other than their formerly sweat-drenched skin, they made a startling discovery.

The town was…weird.

But not in an overly obvious way. Sure, it looked like a mix of an advanced civilization with strong ties to the Tang and Song Dynasties, but there were plenty of places like that. No, the strangeness was from how the people were acting.

Yes, the civilians were a mix of humans and demons, much higher concentration of demons by far (nothing too odd), and there was no outer sign of strife. They seemed to go about regular lives yet there was this tension in the air, a sense they were waiting for something to go wrong. Outside strict greetings and interactions, no one seemed to talk freely. Small groups would cluster together but not so much as a whisper was heard. Not even the children spoke out of turn.

That wasn’t the end of it.

The streets were too clean. Everything was too clean.

Even in Megapolis, there was some clutter or graffiti, but here…nothing. The sidewalks looked like they were power washed daily. The guardian statues shined in the sunlight like they were better than new. There was not a hint of mold or rust to be found on a single building or sign. Everyone was impeccably dressed with simplistic yet elegant hairstyles and coordinated make-up. Everything was just too perfect.

The more the group saw, the more uncomfortable they became.

It was enough for Pigsy to remind them several times about not drawing attention to themselves. Grab the goods and go.

No distractions. Naturally, that didn’t happen.

Eh, best-laid plans and all that nonsense.

Mei was struggling to pick out clothes for everyone. She recognized none of the brands sold in any of the stores. When she asked the cashiers, they told her they were local distributors approved by the royal family. Not wanting to delve into that madness, Mei returned to her shopping, besides she did enjoy supporting local businesses.

The clothing available was definitely more traditional than what she was used to, but this wasn’t the time for that. Having everyone’s measurements memorized, it was pretty easy to pick out outfits that would fit, even though the clothes themselves would make them look like they took a step back in time. Some of the styles reminded her of when she had to dress up for political galas. Honestly, the only one who wouldn’t have a problem was Tang, but beggars can’t be choosers and it was a minor detail all things concerned.

Although, she may have caused a scene at the register.

I’m sorry but there was no way twenty outfits (with shoes and jackets!) totaled less than 2000 yuan without a massive sale. But the cashier said that was the case and before she knew it a lot of people were staring at her, a few even had their phones out. Giving an uneasy laugh, Mei paid for the clothes and ran.

So, shopping done and some free time on her hands, Mei took the opportunity to go a bit selfie crazy. Hey, she had to rush through multiple prime scenes without being able to take a single pic, she’s earned this!

Although as she was browsing her latest pics, Mei noticed a symbol pop up in the background more and more. It was vaguely familiar, bringing up a strange cocktail of emotions. The shape itself wasn’t too crazy, pretty basic all things considered. It looked like a sword bridging together two horns, every tip sharpened to a deadly point.

It was everywhere. On doors, in murals, painted on lanterns, engraved into the city gates, some people even had it embroidered on their clothing (none were on the garments she bought, meaning it was specially requested or personally stitched).

Looking up, Mei couldn’t help but notice it everywhere around her. Swallowing, she decided it was best to meet up with the others to get a second opinion. Thankfully she didn’t have to walk too far before she found someone who could help her.

It was Tang, walking out of a building with what appeared to be half the city’s medical supplies.

Pulling him to the side as he gave a little yelp at the treatment, Mei shoved her phone in his face. “Tang, does this symbol look familiar to you?”

Pushing aside his annoyance, the scholar adjusted his glasses that had been knocked askew. “Hmm? It’s definitely from a recent memory.” This was quite embarrassing actually. He knew he had seen it before, quite frequently, yet the origin escaped him. He could chalk it up to spending months absorbed in hundreds of scrolls and his research into the Samadhi Fire, along with all the nonsense of the journey, but no this was inexcusable.

He knew what this symbol was, if only he had a bit more content.

Before he could say anything else, both pilgrims froze at a hauntingly familiar sound.

A walking gait that sounded a touch too precise with a strange metallic after tone.

Glancing around the corner, tall figures were patrolling the city in groups of six. Their gaze was unflinching as they took in every citizen and building. The natives were quick to bow in reverence only rising when the guards had fully passed them.

Bull clones

“We’re in the Demon Bull King’s territory,” Tang whispered; eyes wide as the symbol found its place on Princess Iron Fan’s dress, Red Son’s necklace, and DBK’s armor.

“We gotta get outta here,” Mei said, fully aware of how screwed her friends would be if they were ambushed. Again.

“Carefully,” Tang cautioned. “As far as we know, we haven’t broken any laws or warranted any reason to be hunted down.”

“You mean besides regularly thwarting their plans for global conquest,” Mei stated wrapping her hands around the Dragon Blade’s hilt.

Tang stopped her from drawing it as he constantly scanned the area for any sign of other approaching bull clones. “Currently, we are under a tentative truce thanks to MK’s efforts, so we while we need to leave, we must do so without giving them any reason to target us.”

While it was painful, Mei refused the call for violence. “I’ll grab MK, you get Pigsy, and we’ll meet up with Sandy and the TEA.”

“Make it five minutes.”

“You’re on.” Shaking on it, the two ran in different directions hoping they weren’t too late.

§~~~~§~~~~§~~~~§

On one of the taller buildings, electronic eyes identified the faces of the fleeing pilgrims. A notification was silently sent to its creator as it and its comrades awaited further instructions.

§~~~~§~~~~§~~~~§

“Still alive, I see.” Crimson eyes glowed as flames danced within his corneas and flicked out as sharp edges. Laughing to himself, he swiftly input a set of commands.

All around him forges glowed ever brighter as their master’s mood brightened. It appeared things were going to get quite interesting in the future.

§~~~~§~~~~§~~~~§

Thankfully, the team was able to leave the city without any altercations.

They even had time to change into their new clothes, which predictably fit like a glove. But their positive mood had shot itself in the head.

“We literally drove up to our enemy’s doorstep. This has to be a new low.” Pigsy groaned as he nursed a growing headache.

“Was Monkey King out of it the entire time?” MK asked, looking at his meditating master who now had several cats curled around and on him. It was truly an adorable scene, proven by Mei taking at least ten pictures.

“Hasn’t moved an inch,” Sandy affirmed from the driver’s seat.

“Wonderful.” MK’s gaze lowered at the report. He was really hoping his mentor was ready to take a break or something. He still had so many questions but looks like he’s back to waiting.

“As much as I enjoy poking fun at our stone monkey, we seem to be forgetting something important. Where do we go now?” Mei asked, as they truly didn’t have a final destination in mind.

The three adults exchanged an uneasy look.

“I’m afraid our choices are limited. With the map not providing any identifiable landmarks and the Monkey King…unable to give us any more information on the locations of the rings, there’s not much we can do.” Tang solemnly said.

“Well, we do have one option,” MK said staring out the window at the divide between the vegetation shielded by rocks and the unyielding desert.

“Like?” Sandy kindly asked. He truly would appreciate a sense of direction, plus he didn’t want to waste gas even if it was the cheapest tank he’s bought in fifteen years (although what he bought was less gasoline and more pure energy structured to power machinery).

“We know the Samadhi Fire is the pinnacle of fire mastery, who do we know specializes in fire manipulation?” MK asked as he braced himself against a bunk.

“What?!” The collective shout nearly threw the pour boy across the T.E.A.

“You can’t be serious,” Tang stated as visions of watching his child nearly being killed flashed before him.

“We are not going to waltz into the home of demons who tried to enslave our city and came this close to killing us mere months ago!” Pigsy shouted. But in the end, it didn’t matter how much time passed, he would never forgive the family that nearly robbed him of his greatest treasures over and over again.

Forced to watch as that so-called “princess” sent his boy hurling into the horizon with a mere flick of the wrist. Leaving them all believing he was dead or worse. That one scene played over and over in his head for weeks as nightmares forced him awake in a cold sweat. Still does, to be honest.

“There’s also the question of why they would hear us out. I mean they gain nothing by helping us. And I’m pretty sure the traditions of hospitality do not include sworn enemies, regardless of Mei’s evidence of Red Son’s potential redemption arc.” Tang stated, looking in the direction of one smug heiress.

“Oh, like you didn’t acknowledge it,” said dragon remarked with a cat-like smirk.

“Plus, what are we gonna do with Monkey King? We can’t just leave him in the van, but if we tell them they might take the opportunity to try and mutilate him.” Sandy chimed in, bringing up a good point.

Even if Wukong could not be killed, it did not mean that he was incapable of feeling pain or having his energy further drained. There was also the possibility that, like their time in the Eastern Sea Palace, his presence would make their time more difficult than it needed to be.

“I have an idea, but I need to speak with Princess Iron Fan.” MK frantically started waving his arms at the disbelieving stares. “Just hear me out. Lady Bone Demon was probably the strange energy that made DBK lose it last year, ya’know when they took over the city.”

“We remember.” MK actually took a step back from the sheer deadpan response, remembering they had to endure the effects of his rule for two days while he was training with the Monkey King, who had been trying to make up for his distant behavior.

“So, they would carry a grudge over such a violation of his free will.”

“Makes sense.” Pigsy was fully aware of how grudges could take over a demon’s life, beyond that, the concept of revenge was a recognized part of their culture.

“So, by helping us acquire a weapon to defeat her, they would be directly responsible for her death.” He wasn’t sure why the concept of her death had become so easy to discuss, all he knew was that he couldn’t wait for it to pass so he could get back to his life.

However, a certain father figure wasn’t entirely sold on the idea. “Kid, you could spout hypotheticals all you want, even if they are reasonable, it doesn’t mean anything if they refuse to listen. They have no reason to give you the time of day.” Truce or not, he was still the proud successor of the Sun Wukong.

“They will if I invoke court protocol.” If there was one thing Macaque was clear on, it was the importance of tradition with older royalty. As it so happens, DBK and Princess Iron Fan were some of the oldest demon royals in the world.

“And where did you learn that?” Sandy asked, giving Mo a good scritch under the chin. The others were eager to hear the response as it didn’t sound like a lesson the Monkey King would give.

Eyes darting to the side, MK gave the only answer he felt was appropriate. “From a kind, cruel warrior.”

“Fine,” Pigsy sighed in defeat, only because he knew the kid would never give up and it was better they all go than risk the two vanishing in the night. Oh, they would be talking about this ‘Warrior’ later. “but the fact remains even if we are in their territory, we have no idea where their palace is.”

“You mean that ominous building built into the side of an active volcano with horns,” Sandy pointed out.

Everyone crammed into the front and was stunned at what they saw.

Before them lie a massive palace that towered over every peak in the surrounding mountain range underneath a swirling vortex of dark clouds. The structure appeared much like the city, a combination of the old and new. Towers and separate buildings sounded the main structure, all composed of dark stone with steel reinforcements. Certain buildings held more technologically advanced components that gave off purple and blue lights.

Lava flowed freely from the earth’s crust through canals basking each residence in a warm glow, while the waves of heat gave the sense each building contained something terrifying. Each building wore at least one set of steel pillars fashioned into a strong set of bull horns. The highest tower proudly carried the golden symbol of the Demon Bull Family.

“How did we not see that?” Mei asked as she took a quick picture.

“Okay, no point delaying this any further.” MK was about to step out when a hand threw him back onto the beds.

“Not like that you’re not. Mei, secure him.” Tang instructed. “I’ll prepare the hot water.”

Green lightning crackled as the young dragon rose from behind the Monkie Kid. “On it.”

MK was not afraid to charge blindly into an army of rage-fueled demons, but when it came to being the target of an enthusiastic Mei, he was itching to crawl under the nearest rock. Alas, he wasn’t fast enough.

The Monkie Kid shrieked as the scholar worked to make him presentable before the temperamental royal family. He wasn’t entirely sure of everything that happened, but he knew it had skyrocketed to the third most harrowing experience of his young life.

When the pain stopped, MK looked almost unrecognizable.

He was dressed in the nicest robes he’d ever worn, a hanfu of yellow, red, and gold. His hair was brushed down to gently frame his face as the lightest touch of eyeliner and eye shadow were used to accentuate the windows to the innocent soul within. Any imperfection had been meticulously removed or hidden without leaving a hint of dullness, leaving his skin shining like a porcelain doll.

He truly resembled one who could say they were the successor to a powerful king.

Mei, being the ultimate bestie, was wearing the extravagant dress she got from the Dragon Palace of the East Sea with lip gloss and light eye shadow. She didn’t need much and MK was meant to be the main focus.

“Given our current resources, this was all I could do. Any more and I fear it would come off as more tacky than refined.” Tang said, disappointed that he couldn’t do more with his current resources.

With that sorted, they approached the gates, stepping out at the last portion to approach on foot. Sandy gently held a meditating Monkey King in full view, it was decided honesty was going to be the best defense as MK was still regaining his powers.

The gate themselves were equally impressive, easily 10 meters high and 5 meters wide, carved of what appeared to be a strange hybrid of steel and iron.

‘Ok MK, this is where all those etiquette lessons are going to pay off.’ Taking a deep breath, MK released a pulse of what little divine power he managed to retrieve thinking of the untouchable queen.

For a moment, nothing changed, until the winds of all corners swiftly gathered into a single tornado. The winds parted revealing a figure most would call beautiful and all would consider deadly, Princess Iron Fan.

She looked as flawless and in control as she did in their last battle. Staring down at the group, she looked both bored out of her mind and endlessly radiant. MK instinctively knew if he didn’t speak up, she would leave them with nothing but regrets.

Joining his sleeves together, MK lowered himself into a modest bow. “Well met Princess Iron Fan, High Queen of the Iron Bull Court. We seek refuge within your domain to regain our strength in our quest to conquer a shared enemy. Will you hear our humble plea?”

One of the immortal princess’ sleek eyebrows actually rose at the request.

Being so long-lived, little could surprise her, but she never imagined Sun Wukong would teach the little thief proper court etiquette. She could easily ignore their plea as was her right as a long-standing enemy; however, curiosity was a powerful thing and revenge made it all the sweeter. “One condition…he cooks dinner and breakfast.” She pointed to the artist who wove dreams into flavor.

“We are honored by your kindness, my queen.”

A pair of Bull Clones were ordered to guide them and with that, the princess vanished as suddenly as she arrived.

§~~~~§~~~~§~~~~§

The T.E.A. was moved to the garage, a wonderous mechanical playground filled with all sorts of custom-designed marvels. Red Son had been ready to receive them with a rather knowing glint in his eye and a cruel smirk upon his face.

He proceeded to guide them to the kitchen and dining area, proudly showing off his family’s unquestionable wealth and security system. Sure, he never pushed any of them into a trap, but he didn’t warn any of them either.

Like outside, lava freely flowed within the palace along the walls. The burning glow eliminated the need for torches or lightbulbs, but it had a side effect the team was quick to experience. Every room ran hot. It was a slow, dry heat and without the ability to regulate one’s own body temperature or feed off the heat around themselves the group was quickly gaining back a new layer of sweat.

Which was why the first thing they did upon entering the kitchen was down any water they could get their hands on. Red Son merely watched with a satisfied grin. After enduring the peasants taking far too many liberties with his mercy during New Years, it was glorious to see them suffer.

Of course, he still had projects to finish.

So, he told the Monkey King’s latest toys dinner was expected in two hours and they would settle for nothing but perfection. In a burst of flame, intentionally adding to the room’s uncomfortable temperature, he returned to his workshop ignoring the soreness of his fangs and the slight craving for fresh blood.

§~~~~§~~~~§~~~~§

A true feast was laid upon the Dining Room’s main table.

Fresh bao released delicate trails of steam. Plates were piled high with chop suey, including the addition of quail eggs and lightly braised duck. Broccoli with oyster sauce shone delicately to the side as Sichuan green beans offered a welcoming burn. Xinjiang pulled noodle soup was a must due to Princess Iron Fan’s reaction from Food Wars.

Overall, it was a magnificent spread everyone pulled together to complete, and judging by the royal family’s pleased expressions they’d have to do it again.

Just as a good meal could nurture the soul, so too could it bring people together. Pretty soon the silence that once dominated the room was a thing of the past as conversations arouse over the most unlikely of topics.

“You watch Cooking with Chang’e?” Pigsy asked in utter disbelief.

“Regardless of the passage of time, food will always be a vital part of life,” DBK said. “It is…comforting to see an old face adapt so well to this current era. The show’s premise suits her.” And he enjoyed discovering new dishes to try with his wife. Time had treated the culinary world well.

“Wait…You knew her personally?” The demon chef could hardly bear what he was hearing.

“Not well, but we crossed paths enough for me to learn about her and her burdens.”

“Heh. Usually, Tang’s the one geeking out at meeting historical figures.” Mei said, thrilled at seeing the normally gruff pig acting like a hyper fanboy.

“Oh, he’s got that covered.” Sandy laughed pointing to the scholar who was enraptured by a tale crafted by the family’s matriarch.

“I can’t believe no one knew it was him,” Tang said, completely start stuck by the sheer amount of first-hand information. “You’d think it would be pretty obvious.”

“One would assume, yet when it comes to that idiotic simian one learns simplicity is not in his vocabulary when it comes to mischief.” Princess Iron Fan said, allowing herself to lean just a fraction more into the plush cushions.

“Too true. Another cup, my lady?” Tang offered to pour his host another cup of tea, which she allowed with a slight nod.

With everything going on no one noticed how a certain fire demon had gone silent, analyzing the scene before him with a steady heart. It was so different from a political dinner or a family meal. There was such free warmth and joy, unlike anything he’d ever experienced.

Turns out he wasn’t the only one enjoying the sights.

“This is nice,” MK whispered not wanting to disturb the tranquility that surrounded him.

“Speak up, noodle boy,” Red Son demanded, masking his similar emotions with a familiar annoyance. Didn’t help that the noodle boy and dragon/horse girl had forsaken proper attire for a much less impressive ensemble. He quite enjoyed seeing his enemies looking like respectable members of demon society, among other things.

MK just gave an easy smile. “It’s just with all the attacks and the looming end of the world, it’s nice to be able to talk and relax with familiar faces.”

“Even if you did try to kill us, multiple times,” Mei said with a cheeky grin.

“In my defense, people we aim to kill normally don’t survive the first attempt.” Red Son plainly stated.

“Yeah… You’re new to the whole ‘apologizing’ thing, aren’t you?” Mei teased.

Removing his glasses so he may properly rub his eyes, Red Son glared at the two teenagers who were the source of many headaches. To think he was almost worried about them when news of the attack on Megapolis reached their palace. “You might as well explain what you noodle-brained peasants are doing all the way out in our territory.”

“Looking for the Samadhi Fire,” Mei answered.

The young fire demon had made the mistake of taking a drink at the time. With the sheer ridiculousness of what he heard, water sprayed out with greater force than a hose from a fire station. Somehow, he managed to angle himself so the water landed in the flowing lava of the room and not on the generous spread.

“The Samadhi what?!” Red Son chocked out.

As he debated how these idiots could have come across the existence of such a glorious power, his actions reminded another of an important detail.

“Ahem.” All attention was drawn to Princess Iron Fan who once more resembled a deadly if irritated enemy. While this little offering was entertaining, it did not erase previous battles.

“I trust you realize our little truce is at best a fragile thing. So, tell me, why precisely have you intruded upon our territory claiming to share a common foe?” Princess Iron Fan didn’t so much as ask as demand answers, taking a refreshing drink.

Her husband followed suit certain the answer would at the very least provide a half-decent laugh.

“They claim to be looking for the Samadhi Fire.” Red Son elaborated, although still very lost.

At their son’s words, both Princess Iron Fan and the Demon Bull King did a terrific impression of their son’s spit take.

“WHAT!!!!” DBK bellowed, nearly knocking MK out of his seat from the sheer force of his shout.

Suddenly, all the joy was sucked from the room.

“We take it you’ve heard of it?” MK asked, more than a little shaken.

DBK’s hand slammed onto the table, miraculously not shattering it into a million fragments, as he stared down the group with utter fury.

“I can only assume the Great Sage sent you on this moronic quest.” His eyes glowed with unholy power as he spat the title like the curse it was for his family. Although the true target of his rage was choosing to hide from the consequences of his actions, so he had to restrain himself.

Princess Iron fan gripped the armrests of his throne. “That flame is one of the most dangerous weapons in existence, what reason could Sun Wukong-”

“The Lady Bone Demon.” Princess Iron Fan grew still at the name. Despite being so rudely interrupted by the noodle boy, she couldn’t help but grow silent as her sworn brother reported the very same identity mere days before Megapolis went dark.

“We believe she was the energy-”

“I know what she is,” DBK growled.

“Then you know we need its power to end her.” MK stood, meeting the ancient evil’s eyes without compromise.

The two monarchs exchanged an uneasy look. Things had grown far more complicated far too quickly.

“What exactly do you know of the Samadhi Fire?” Princess Iron Fan asked.

MK blinked at eh question. “Uh? Well, we know it’s ridiculously powerful.”

“It was sealed away in three holy rings.” Mei followed up.

“And if mishandled, it could destroy all of existence.” Sandy finished with a touch of flair.

There was a tense silence.

Everyone turned in unison to the scholar who was polishing his bowl.

Blinking at being the center of attention, Tang sighed. “That pretty much covers the basics.”

Pigsy snickered, knowing how much his old friend no doubt wanted to go into a full-on lecture but restrained himself given their company.

“But you know nothing of its origin?” She pressed.

The group was forced to concede as even with what little the Monkey King had offered and Tang’s research revealing the bare minimum (besides discovering the documented users of the True Fire of Samadhi had mysteriously started dying out roughly two thousand years ago), they admitted to being clearly left in the dark.

“Typical Sun Wukong, revealing only the information he chooses.” The Demon Bull King glared at the upper right corner where the simian meditated, completely ignorant to the world. He always suspected the fool was a pitiful mentor, this merely provided further evidence he had no place to teach, much less guide the next generation. “Assuming he knows what’s best without a second thought, that dumb monkey hasn’t changed.”

“Well, you all seem well informed, why not cure us of our ignorance? What are we missing?” MK asked.

“That the Samadhi Fire you seek was forged…by our own son.” Princess Iron Fan’s words were without pride or satisfaction, merely empty acceptance.

“What?!?!” Now it was their turn to have the world turned on its head and be left in utter confusion and rage, except for Sandy. “Please explain further.”

Said demon stared at his beloved mother trying to make sense of the insane revelation. “Heh heh, mother?”

Princess Iron fan gazed at the young prince, at the young face as he begged for the truth. Knowing the damage that could arise, she turned away as the memories flooded in. “When Red Son was born, he appeared the same as any demonic child, a promising addition to the Demon Bull Family. Too promising…”

“As he grew so did his powers, but they became more and more unstable until they spiraled out of control.” It was far too clear, the memory of the day when they realized exactly what power their infant child possessed.

For months, the fire wards they placed around their child’s room had been failing faster and faster. They were uncertain of how to proceed. Yes, they desired a powerful heir, but until they had some means of control, all that be left would be mindless destruction. They stepped into their son’s nursery to see the caregiver long dead, little more than a charred skeleton. But it barely caught their eye compared to what their child was doing to himself.

Their precious calf was punching himself in the face. Once. Twice. The scent of blood tainted the air. And then, there was a shift. The flames grew to heights beyond sight. Iron Fan called the four winds to her aid as the Bull King focused his chi to project a barrier around Red Son.

Neither attempt held. It was as if the flames were able to burn through both pure magic and the very elements with ease. They were forced back as their child laughed and toddled after them, no doubt thinking it was a new game. Their palace was reduced to ruins in an instant as their child’s flames no longer burned red but a haunting blue.

“Even with our combined might, we could not control him. Reluctantly-”

“We were given no option, but to remove this power.” The Demon Bull King solemnly stated, cutting off his wife, knowing all too well how painful it was for her to remember. “I pleaded with the Great Monk for aid and he granted us hope. Sun Wukong, Prince Nezha, and myself were gathered; our bodies deemed the most likely to survive separating the fire from the child.”

Standing upon the mountain peak, knowing the entire mountain had been converted into a specialized seal for this singular purpose, the Demon Bull King never felt so weak. To his left, a powerful celestial warrior, to his right, his former brother in arms and current annoyance, and standing opposite himself was the Great Monk calmly reciting the spell. He never dreamed to be in such a situation, but if it would allow him to hold his son, he would gladly risk his life a thousand times over.

Gazing up, he saw his son surrounded by a sphere of unquenchable fire still laughing without a care. Seeing his father looking at him, the young Red Son waved with childish glee inadvertently releasing another stream of deadly flame.

The sealing ritual was brutal, taking everything last drop of magical and physical strength he possessed to endure the interdimensional weapon’s wrath. He could feel it resisting them every step. With each ember sealed, it lashed out with greater force. Yet he refused to yield, he would hold his son again! “It took our combined forces to split the flames into three pieces, sealing their power.”

In a flash of golden light, a true demonstration of divine power, it was over. All that was left was the three rings and his tired boy. Dropping the trinket, the Demon Bull King rushed to catch his son as he fell. Cradling the weakened child, he smiled as the infant softly cooed at him before curling up to take a nap. “Together we swore to keep the rings hidden for all eternity.”

The king rid himself of such memories to glare at their ‘guests’ but stilled his fury at the sight of his child trembling under the weight of such knowledge.

If he had been stronger, if he had been better perhaps his son wouldn’t have needed to be stripped of power that was rightfully his. To be so weak, when all of Heaven had witnessed his true potential. “So, you can see that it would be impossible for little thieves such as yourselves to control that power if even the spawn of two immortals could not.”

“B-but I thought the fire had to be claimed through rigorous, specialized training,” Tang said as their story flew in the face of everything he had read about the ultimate flame.

“Normally, but in our case, Red Son was born with such a strong affinity it couldn’t help but ignite within him at such a tender age. Had he been able to wield the power just a century later, he would have enough awareness and control, we could enlist a teacher so he could truly claim the power as his own. But it wasn’t meant to be…” That laughter…she could still hear the twisted laughter echoing as the flames roared ever hotter.

“The True Samadhi Fire, in the hands of a master is able to burn what they desire alone, leaving everything else unharmed. Were I still connected to it, I could ignite the very essence of a single flower in a crowded field and only that flower to where not even the soil would be scorched.” Red Son mechanically said, his eyes glazed over as he tried to process everything he just heard. He stared at his hands as his dreams of blazing blue fire overlapped reality. For so long, he sought greater power to aid his family, to learn he already had it, but became a danger to his honorable parents, to the entire court…

How pathetic was he!

“So, it is possible to kill the Lady Bone Demon without hurting her host?” MK asked, eyes shining at the knowledge there was a chance to save her.

“Of course, it is.” DBK release a breath of steam as he refrained from marching over to the ignorant simian and throttling him for his incompetence. “It, like all things, requires patience and discipline. However, given my history with the Great Sage and your expressions, I can tell he didn’t feel the need to explain such things.”

“No shit,” Mei said, uncaring of her location or company.

“Language!” Tang reflexively shouted. Hand rubbing his forehead he turned to the demon royalty with an exhausted expression desperate they wouldn’t take offense. “You try to raise them well and suddenly they’re swearing left and right.”

“I feel your pain.” Mercifully they were feeling generous. “It can be so difficult raising well-mannered children in the presence of a poor influence.” Wrathful gazes pined the Great Sage through the heart.

“I think that’s enough story time for one day.” Princess Iron fan said, her appetite thoroughly depleted. “Come, my love, I believe that little baking show you enjoy will be starting soon.” As though she didn’t love curling up with her husband watching the little mortals scurry about as they created delectable treats which would influence next week’s menu.

“Yes, dear.” Rising from his throne, the king knew he best take his leave before his rage took control.

As the mountainous demon moved, Mei couldn’t help but be transfixed by the glint of his nose ring. She could almost swear she could see something reflected in the light.

“Well now that you lot managed to ruin an ideal family dinner, it’s time for this day to be over.” Red Son said, sliding closer to the annoyances (who only he had the right to slaughter).

Seeing the dragon/horse girl was still staring in the direction his father was headed, he reached for her shoulder rolling his eyes.

Gasping the two were overcome with powerful visions. Three rings of orange, green, and blue floating above the silhouette of a young girl. Red Son laughing as an infant. Blue fire destroying countless soldiers as wicked laughter was carried over a field of eternal ash.

Master

Destruction

Home

Death to the Weak

Revenge

Burning

Three more Chains

So Close

Endless Fury

Blood Sizzling on Steel

Almost Free

Alone no Longer

U̵͉͈͚̤̜͝n̴̛͕̩̮̲͆̔̈l̷͖̤̥̜̽͛́̕e̶̪̗̔̅̋͗̂ͅạ̶̰͙͊s̵̢̤̳͎̲͊̌h̵͈͙͕͚̻̋͂͝ ̴̝͚̀̔̈̿͠Ū̵͎̓̕ş̵̫͚̞̋́͜

Jumping back, Red Son stared at the young dragon with the slightest hint of, dare I say, fear. He didn’t know why but something felt off about her as if the mere sight of her reminded him of something important. Was she glowing?

“Ah, Red Son?” MK asked, this close to putting a hand over his shoulder.

“Nothing.” Tearing his eyes away from his racing rival, Red Son spun on his heel sending his overcoat billowing with an artful flair. “Follow me, however, if you wish to be crippled and mutilated by the defense system, I won’t stop you.”

Red Son sped through the maze-like corridors only slightly aware of the idiots trailing after him. Swiftly he stopped at a set of doors that looked no different than the dozens of others lining the hallway. Flinging them open, the team was shoved into an area that put even the most expensive and elaborate penthouse suite to shame.

“Breakfast is conducted at precisely 7 am.” And in a burst of fire, the demon prince vanished.

“Well, that was more dramatic than usual,” Sandy commented earning a laugh from the two teens.

So, the group marked where they were and proceeded to take full advantage of the fact they once more had access to running water. This also included placing Monkey King under the shower head, hastily drying him off, and sticking him in the corner covered in a towel so his glow wouldn’t keep them up all night.

MK offered to go last. Devoting his time to the lotus position as he tried to unlock more of his abilities. His mind was filled with the story he overheard, what would happen if he failed, and what would happen to his family. The enemies they’d have to face just to survive. The knowledge the Celestial army wouldn’t hesitate to slaughter them if they were deemed a threat. The tears that would be shed at each loss until there was nothing to mourn.

He could feel it. Little by little the golden energy was building. He could almost touch it. Little more. And got it!

A puff of gold smoke-shrouded MK, parting to reveal the Monkie Kid was now… an inch tall.

“Shrinking. Come on!” MK complained, his voice coming out in an adorable squeak.

“What’s wrong? You rediscovered another ability.” Pigsy pointed out as Mei ruffled her friend’s hair with her fingertip.

“I was trying to unlock the 72 transformations.” He pouted, but he was enjoying the treatment.

“That power’s pretty new for you. Maybe you’ll have to wait in accordance to how you first unlocked them.” Tang said, combing out Sandy’s hair.

“But I barely learned how to shrink myself before I picked up transformation.” And that day was filled with being chased by the Spider Queen and mentally assaulted by an ancient evil hijacking the body of a nine-year-old.

“You shrunk your staff almost since the beginning,” Mei said.

“Point.” Ever since he defeated DBK he regularly kept the staff in his ear, both in reference to the Monkey King and because it felt like a smart place where he could always have it in easy reach without the risk of losing it.

“So, any idea where DBK could have hidden his ring. If we think about it, it could be anywhere.” Tang said, pondering where they should start. They honestly had no idea how vast the Iron Bull Court’s territory was, but even if it was limited to the city and palace that is a lot of ground to cover without attracting attention and they were on a very short deadline.

“It’s DBK’s nose ring,” Mei stated.

Heads turned.

“Seriously?” Pigsy questioned.

“Just a feeling…” Mei said, not certain how to answer because she truly didn’t know why she knew, just that she knew.

“It would allow him to always know where it is.” Sandy reasoned.

“Alright, say it is the ring. How do you plan to remove it without sending the big guy into a killing frenzy?” Pigsy asked, hoping they could come up with some sort of plan that could keep them all alive. That should not be too much to ask, yet here they were.

As they talked none of them noticed the map giving off a faint glow or how Mei’s eye looked a touch brighter.

§~~~~§~~~~§~~~~§

In his workshop, Red Son stared at his blueprints without truly seeing them.

His mind was lost in a sea of confusion. Snarling, he flipped his entire workbench, spilling everything from pens to tea cups to months of work onto the floor.

Flames danced in his hair and twirled around his fingers. Smoke and steam-filled his vision, but none of it mattered. He felt wrong.

As though something was scratching the back of his skull. Whispers trickled into his ears and bounced in his brain; he could barely make out the words yet he knew it was about the Fire. His skin felt too tight as a foreign need echoed in his bones. An unknown hunger had settled into his stomach and spread throughout his veins.

The shadows on the walls grew unnaturally long but there was no sign of his uncle’s magic. The ground bucked and curved under his feet as he swayed. He became increasingly aware of the lack of blood in the air. His breaths came out in pants as the furnaces grew brighter, the flames inside dancing to a song he could barely sense. The oranges and reds were intertwined in a hypnotic dance, glitching to white and blue.

He didn’t understand why this was happening. Why now?

Screaming a torrent of fire into one of the dozens of furnaces, hair erupting, Red Son gasped as he felt the sensations lessen. Wiping the sweat from his brow, he knew this couldn’t go on. He felt like was losing his mind.

So, he went for the one person who could answer his questions.

“Mother, why didn’t you ever tell me I had such power? Surely with it, I could have been able to free Father much faster.” Red Son inquired, desperate for answers. He didn’t care he interrupted his parent’s time together. He didn’t care that he so rudely teleported his mother from his father’s side to the hallway. He didn’t care if those heroes eavesdropped, he needed to know!

Yet before his eyes, he witnessed what he’d long thought impossible. Red Son watched in horror as his mother lowered her gaze in utter defeat.

“What was attempted had never been done before.” She explained with a heavy heart. “The True Fire of Samadhi was unlike any other. Even with the flame split, there was still the fear the seal could break prematurely and unleash waves of destruction as they sought to become whole. There was the chance if you knew too early any mental barricades would be dissolved and as the fire sought you out, you, in turn, would be drawn to it.”

That was the danger. Power that was sealed could easily be released with the right tools and motivation. “You would seek it out and in the small chance you would obtain the rings, you could become lost to it again. The Heavenly Bureaucracy would sooner have you dead than risk the fate of all existence, so silence was determined the wisest course. I couldn’t lose you as well.” Her voice wavered as she spoke the final sentence as if she was on the verge of crying.

She was an immortal demon. A being of such immense power, she had been revered as a goddess. Her knowledge was vast and her skills ever-expanding, yet the thought of losing her family again after just getting them back, after they had just started to heal, it was too much.

Red Son just stared, long past when his mother returned to the royal chambers. It was not in their history to be overly affectionate, yet he felt like he could use a soft embrace.

In the vents above, MK stared at the young demon who looked so lost, nothing like the terrifying enemy that threatened to reduce the city to a graveyard using a weather tower. He heard everything. He heard the heartbreak, the desperation, the emotions that proved these demons were more than destructive forces from ancient tales.

He wanted to comfort the poor demon, really.

But he had to follow Princess Iron Fan to find DBK. Plus, if he showed himself Red Son would know he had been listening and that was a whole other thing.

Even as every fiber of his being cried out to offer support, MK knew he had to stick to the mission. With the Monkey King still locked in meditation, he was the only one who could pull this off. And he would.

Somehow.

It took another ten minutes of tracking Princess Iron fan through the vents with golden vision before he found the grate that would drop him into the center of the family’s main bedroom. Mapping out the route in his journal MK was all set to head back for some sleep before jumping into a plan with a high chance of getting himself killed.

“Today I’m going to show you how to make the best dan dan noodles you’ve ever tasted.” A friendly voice chirped from a flatscreen nearly half the size of a jumbotron.

Huh? He really does watch her show.

Wasn’t that last week’s episode? Must be a rerun.

§~~~~§~~~~§~~~~§

Groaning Pigsy awoke to the sense something wasn’t right. Leaning forward, he saw his favorite nerd frantically writing with a manic look in his eye. “Tang? What are you doing up?”

“Something just doesn’t feel right.” The scholar muttered, flipping back a few pages to check the time stamps only to cross out what he just wrote. “It just doesn’t add up.”

“I know.” Walking over, Pigsy leaned close to offer comfort without disturbing the others. Taking notice that MK was happily snoring into his pillow, meaning they still had time before he made his move. “We’re spending the night in the mansion of demons who once tried to kill and enslave us, but you got to get some rest. I’m pretty sure after breakfast if we don’t run, we’ll be sent flying by a fiery tornado.” Assuming they don’t have to book it the second MK touched the ring.

“I’ll try.” Tang smiled, but even as he closed his eyes his mind refused to still. While being in the fortress of the Iron Bull clan was terrifying and amazing, it wasn’t what unnerved him. Something wasn’t adding up and he wouldn’t be able to rest properly until he figured it out.

§~~~~§~~~~§~~~~§

It was nearly five in the morning and Pigsy was already hard at work preparing breakfast, with minor assistance.

Nearly everyone was dead on their feet, barely able to pass ingredients as Pigsy didn’t trust any of them with a knife or near fire. Sandy was currently downing entire kettles of tea to wake himself up. Mei was blissfully snoring away in a cat pile. Tang was staring at his book looking like he’d barely gotten an hour of sleep. Monkey King remained in his meditation, practically begging Pigsy to beat him over the head with a wok.

And MK had disappeared into the vents almost thirty minutes ago.

He already had the menu planned out the night before so most of the prep work was already done. A simple filling selection that wouldn’t take too much time to prepare. Steamed eggs, jian bing, and stuffed sticky rice rolls, dishes with plenty of protein and carbohydrates to get them ready to run for their lives.

The food was almost completely cooked and would be ready for plating shortly. The aroma was starting to ease the others into the realm of semi-consciousness.

A rumble started deep within the palace resonating with the entire foundation as the walls shook in tandem with the unspeakable rage. A primal roar threatened to shatter their eardrums. Everyone was thrown into full awareness and scrambled to get their jobs done.

Their meals were packed up in Tupperware and foil, while a sizeable portion was left out for the family. Just because they were going to be thieves didn’t mean they had to be rude. Bodies raced into the T.E.A. as MK dropped from the ceiling. He was holding a golden ring with three extensions inside it that almost looked like the three comets on Red Son’s coat.

And they were gone!

§~~~~§~~~~§~~~~§

Red Son appeared in the guest room in a flash of fire claws extended, yet there was no one to receive his fury.

The room was void of all life.

The only trace of their indent was the stuffed animal that had been by one of the pillows, a chubby green dragon plushy with a little pink tongue sticking out.

He wouldn’t let this go.

Taking the plush toy, Red Son growled at the open door.

Joining his family at the open gate, where only a pinprick of a vehicle could be spotted on the horizon, he swore he would track them down.

Even now he could still hear the whispers. Feel them tugging him forward. Crimson eyes glowed brightly in the morning sun, the shine masking the tiniest glimmer of blue.

Yes, he would see this through.

§~~~~§~~~~§~~~~§

Yuan is the main form of currency in China with a rough conversion rate of 1 to .15 US dollars. Meaning that Mei’s purchase (20 outfits, including jackets, shoes, and gloves) was less than $300 without any discount or sale. When’s the last time you got a deal that good?

I just want to say thank you to everyone who left a comment on the previous chapter. Reading them truly makes all my hard work feel like it means something. Knowing how much you have been enjoying my work was the motivation I needed to complete this chapter ahead of schedule.

#Vanishing Shadow AU #lego monkie kid #lego monkie kid au #MK #mei #lmk mei #red son #Awkward gay red son #monkie kid pigsy #LMK pigsy #LMK tang #sandy #lmk dbk #princess iron fan #ironbullshipping #sun wukong #court politics #true fire of samadhi

23 notes · View notes