Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Macaque hadn’t been expecting anything good at being dragged to the Lady Bone Demon by her thrall, but he also hadn’t expected to be thrown into a cell either. They’d stolen his lanturn and just left him here. Well that was their mistake if they thought it was going to keep him contained for long! It would’ve been easier if his shadows would listen to him though, and the initial panic he had at not being able to reach his powers had faded at this point. Of course if his only problem was going to boredom until he figured another way to escape then so be it. It was still better than being in the Diyu at least. He wasn’t held down by chains or freezing, at least no more than usual, a fun side effect of being resurrected that he’d gotten used to long ago.

Of course he had to jinx himself even just by thinking anything positive about the situation, because he heard footsteps and whistling? Great he was going to have that wonderful thrall’s company again. He’d done that stupid whistling when he threw him in this cell earlier.

Crossing his arms as the other demon came into view with a glare on his face. “What do you want?” Macaque growled out even as the other merely grinned in response.

“Seems our lady wants to make sure you know the price for ignoring your destined duty.” He replied grin not lowering, and Macaque didn’t like the sound of that.

“Yeah well tell her that ‘Destiny’ of hers go screw off.” He snarked with a tiny smirk.

“Have it your way.” The thrall spoke, snapping his fingers, and smiling as chains appeared and wrapped around the dark-furred monkey’s wrists and ankles. Lifting the prisoner up so he wasn’t touching the floor anymore.

It strained his wrists something fierce, but he’d dealt with worse. “That all you got?” Macaque growled and sometimes he really should remember to keep his mouth shut sometimes, and here he was calling Wukong stupid and rash. Goading the person who currently had him immobilized was reaching the same level of stupidity his pride be damned.

All he felt after that was pain. The chains tightening on command tight enough that it was a miracle his wrists didn’t break in the process. Of course that couldn’t be it even as he felt the stab in his side from the blade that the thrall had in his hand. When had he gotten that? Somehow that wasn’t the most concerning part, it was glowing blue and the chill that speed under his skin was burning him. It felt like his insides were getting frostbite which didn’t seem possible, but of course with these two demons nothing should surprise him. At some point he passed out and he didn’t bother to fight it.

********

Macaque lost track of how long the routine continued; it was impossible to tell, and he’d made the disturbing discovery that his wounds weren’t healing, and they should’ve been. The amount of bleeding cuts was starting to soak his fur, sure they weren’t fatal, but the number of times he’d received the cuts and stab wounds was a bit concerning. It was because of whatever sealing spells they were using he was sure of that. Apparently it was suppressing more than his shadow magic… He was starting to get weaker and dizzy which wasn’t helping his possibilities of escape. It took more effort to stay awake no matter how hard he tried to fight it. The sudden disappearance of the chains holding him was only noticed when he fell to the ground not even having the awareness to catch himself.

“Oops…”

Macaque looked up and glared, if a look could kill the thrall would be burning to ashes. Though the other was clearly amused at his anger and not the least bit intimidated by the shadow user which was infuriating. If he had access to his powers he’d show him a thing or two about being afraid of him. The only reason he got caught was because he’d been taken by surprise, and he wasn't going to be careless and allow it to happen again.

“Our lady requires your presence.”

Macaque barely bit the sarcastic reply off about her not being ‘his lady’. Taking a deep breath as he stood up if only for what remained of his dignity and pride to not be dragged there. Focusing subtly on his magic, which was coming back slightly if not slowly. Okay that was a good sign he could wait for an opening and escape. He didn’t think it was enough yet for a stable shadow portal, but hopefully it would take long enough to get out of this dungeon to get more energy back.

Sometimes he wondered how much bad karma he had accumulated in this life and his former when as soon as the thought left his head he was dropped through a portal that wasn’t one of his own making. Letting out a surprised yelp as he fell through it and landed on his knees on the top of what he assumed was the Bone Mech that they had stolen his lanturn for. Now he knew why Wukong would get so annoyed when he would suddenly drop him through his portals when they were still living on Flower Fruit Mountain, before the Brotherhood and the mess with the Jade Emperor.

It had been to tease Wukong back then though, and this wasn’t to tease him he knew that. It was merely to toy and humiliate him, make him feel as powerless and weak as possible. Well the joke was on them he might be weakened right now, but he wasn’t helpless. Even as he stood up and brushed the dirt from his pants, catching sight of his surroundings. Megaopolis was covered in ice and bone. Clearly the Lady Bone Demon had been busy even as he felt the chill of her presence creeping down his neck turning around keeping his expression as neutral as possible.

“You’ve been busy…don’t know what you need to see me for, it looks like you already won.” Macaque stated even as he watched the floating demon glare down at him.

His magic wasn’t back enough for his portals and he needed an exit now he knew she was about to do something. He had to think, transforming didn’t take as much magic or power he could probably manage that.

“I need you to bring me the Monkey King and his successor.” The Lady Bone Demon stated ignoring the fact that the dark-furred simian had even spoke.

“Yeah no thanks. Even with your lovely hospitality these last few days, think I’m going to have to pass on that.” Macaque said with a tiny nervous smirk a far cry from the confident one he had wanted to present even as he felt sweat form on his brow. It was now or never.

“You are under the illusion I am giving you a choice..”

Before the other could react Macaque shifted into his bird form and launched into the air. It was just his luck that he couldn't completely avoid the spike of ice that shot out at him, getting him on the shoulder above his wing piercing through him. Thanking the little luck he had that hadn’t gotten pinned and managed to rip himself off the spike with his claws pushing away. Though it hurt he kept flying as far and fast as he could. The blood leaking from the wound was concerning and the movement was making it go faster, but he couldn’t stop moving not until he was somewhere far away and safe.

********

Macaque didn’t know how long he’d been flying, but his blood kept dripping and his wing was starting to turn a shade of red to match the leaking liquid. The dizziness was starting setting in too. He needed somewhere safe to land… The shadow user was starting to lose focus even as his hidden ears subconsciously picked up voices, and not fully aware that was the way he was going…

*********

“So where exactly do we start looking for these rings anyway?” MK asked, tilting the map the Monkey King had brought upside down in confusion. He couldn’t understand it even as Tang snatched it out of his hands after he was done narrating his diary entry, Though he didn’t exactly like the reminder of losing his staff to the Lady Bone Demon.

“Well…um…” Monkey King started as he winced as Mei tightened the bandage around the simian’s head. “I think this is a good general direction.” He stated waving his hand in a circle to three pairs of skeptical looks and an eye roll from Pigsy.

“Come on Tang, maybe Sandy will have an idea how to read this thing.” He muttered, dragging the human behind him.

“I’m going to help them.” Mei stated excusing herself from the somewhat smiling, she figured if anybody was going to get anything out of the Monkey King it was MK.

MK looked at Monkey King again and Wukong just gave him his best smile even as he started feeling a touch nervous. “Don’t worry kid, it will all work out!” He stated attempting his best at reassurance even if things didn’t exactly look the best at the moment.

He was always more the improvising type, and this wasn’t really a situation that they could do that. He had a vague plan, but it wasn’t a fully set out one. That had always been more Macaque’s thing, planning things step by step.

Wukong mentally cursed himself wondering why he was thinking of his former friend now of all times? Maybe it could be chalked up to something like comedic timing or irony as soon as the thought left his head a loud crash between the two of them. Well it would be just like Macaque to have a dramatic entrance. Though that wasn’t a purposeful landing since the groan from the dark-furred monkey conveyed it had been at least somewhat painful.

“Macaque?” MK asked both confused and worried.

“What are you doing here?” Wukong asked in a suspicious voice as he folded his arms ready to be on the defensive if the other decided to attack.

“Oh you know, I just decided to visit my favorite student.” Macaque muttered though his voice sounded weaker than normal.

It was then Wukong took the time to actually observe the other smelling the blood before locating the others bleeding shoulder and his eyes widened. That wasn’t the only wound either various stabs and cuts. Somebody had beaten the warrior up and MK was running forward before the gold-furred monkey could warn him to be cautious this was still Macaque after all injuries or not.

“What happened to you!?” MK frantically asked the caring kind-hearted kid that he was which Wukong loved, but at the same time could lead to getting himself in danger.

“Nothing too bad…Really I’m fine….” Macaque started to say promptly falling forward passing out ruining his attempt at trying to minimize his injuries as the human caught him,

Wukong wasn’t worried, he wasn't, he only worried about how this would make things more complicated. Nope he wasn’t worried about his former friend at all. Maybe if he repeated it enough times to himself it wouldn’t sound like a blatant lie.

Chapter Text

Wukong wanted to think that Macaque was faking his collapse or maybe being dramatic to try and lull all of them into a false sense of security so they would let their guards down. The more he watched the other though the more it seemed like he was genuinely out cold even as MK lowered him down to the ground. He’d noticed the shoulder wound the other had, but that alone shouldn’t have caused the other simian to pass out on it’s own regardless of how much he’d clearly aggravated it flying here.

“Money King!” MK was trying to talk to him and he’d apparently been lost in thought because it looked like the kid had been trying to get his attention. Wukong inwardly cursed himself at getting lost in his thoughts when his student was clearly distressed.

“Sorry kid. What’d you say?” Wukong asked his attention, snapping back to the teenager.

“Macaque’s bleeding!” MK answered frantically, lifting his hands to show him the blood.

“I know it’ll heal, we'll just bandage his shoulder up.” Wukong answered dismissively but that didn’t seem to help the kid’s nerves. If anything he seemed more panicked all of a sudden.

“It’s not from his shoulder!” MK raised his voice and Wukong stilled looking down at Macaque whose face was scrunched up in pain even unconscious.

“What!?” Raising his own voice as he finally got on his knees to look over his former best friend and could feel his face growing pale as he saw the growing red stains on Macaque’s shirt.

“Go get the others!” Wukong ordered and MK nodded quickly dashing off as the orange-furred monkey set to try and figure out what was causing so much bleeding. He was glad the dark-furred monkey was out cold for this otherwise he probably would’ve punched him for having to take his shirt off or even just the attempt would’ve been enough to cause a violent outburst.

He didn’t know exactly what to expect, maybe a deep wound or two, but not what he did end up seeing. Macaque was covered in cuts and stab wounds. One deep and long one on his side seemed to be the worst. It had jagged edges like whoever had caused it took the weapon used to make it and twisted it repeatedly. What the hell had happened to him? Macaque was hardly weak or helpless; he'd been his warrior for a reason. He could stand toe to toe with any enemy the two of them had fought in the past.

As the others came running, Wukong backed up somewhat reluctantly. As the looks on the group's faces ranged from fear, suspicion, and sympathy. Seemed like Sandy was the only one with at least some medical expertise, As the blue skinned demon finished the bandages and disinfecting the only sounds the injured demon made was murmured words saying to let him go. MK shared a look with Mei and the two kids turned to look at Wukong for answers that he didn’t have….

************

Waking up in pain was starting to become really annoying. Macaque barely suppressed the groan that threatened to escape him as he sat up letting the blankets on top of him fall to his lap. He didn’t remember laying down? At least he didn’t wake up in chains or tied up, which considering whose ship he landed on he was half expecting to wake up as a prisoner. Seemed like the kid and his group were either stupid or taking sympathy on him. He let out a small huff of annoyance; he didn't need anybody’s sympathy or pity! As a matter of fact he was leaving, or he would’ve if his attempt at calling for his shadow magic didn’t stop before it even managed to form a hole big enough for a finger let alone a person.

Okay so that wasn’t a good sign. Even if he didn’t know how long he’d been sleeping, his magic should’ve been back by now! Macaque had to fight back the urge to panic at the lack of his shadow powers. He relied on them for most of his fighting and survival for centuries, and they never been gone this long before. Even when injured in battle, by the time he woke up with his injuries taken care of he had them back. He’d depleted them before, so it wasn’t like he didn’t have experience with it happening in the past. This was wrong, something was wrong with him, and he had a mix of anger and hope that maybe it was Wukong’s doing. He could at least convince his former friend to undo whatever he did and let him leave so they would be out of each other’s fur for a while until the Lady Bone Demon was dealt with.

Spiraling thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the door. “Macaque? You awake yet? Brought you some food!” MK called through the door apparently impatient for a response as he creaked the door open. Macaque thought that maybe he should pretend to still be asleep, but MK came barreling in before he had a chance to act on it.

“You’re awake!” MK cried out in excitement, and Macaque frowned in confusion. Why did the kid care if he was awake or not? It wasn’t like they were friends, if anything he should be worried and nervous the shadow demon was awake again.

“Brought you some food!” MK continued apparently not noticing the monkey’s confusion or not caring which he wasn’t sure.

The bowl of noodles that was offered to him smelled tempting, he couldn’t remember the last time he ate. The Lady Bone Demon and her servant certainly hadn’t given him anything of substance. Water so he wouldn’t die of dehydration was the extent of their ‘kindness’. He wasn’t going to accept something from the kid though. He’d give him the wrong idea.

“Not hungry.” Macaque stated gently pushing the bowl back towards MK who gave him a frown in response.

“You need to eat!” MK exclaimed, sounding offended. “Besides these noodles are really good! I even helped Pigsy make them!” He stated proudly, and Macaque kept his face neutral.

“Don’t care kid. I’m not hungry.” The statement would’ve probably worked the second time if his stomach didn’t decide to growl immediately after as if to mock his resolve to refuse the offered meal out of pride.

MK smiled like it was a huge dramatic victory as he set the bowl down on the small table by the door. “I’ll leave this here then, I know you’ll really like them!” The young human grinned before rushing off. Macaque sighed well at least he wouldn’t have an audience and it wasn’t like hiding the fact he was really hungry was an option at this point anyway.

It smelled tempting enough, and MK didn’t seem like the type to poison him at least. Taking a cautious tiny bite he wasn’t expecting it to taste as good as it was. He couldn’t remember the last time he actually ate something home cooked and as much as he hated to admit it the pig and the kid could really cook! He was so absorbed in the food that he only noticed he had company when said company made an amused snort.

“Kid said you were awake. Didn’t expect to see you eating that fast though.” Wukong stated with his arms crossed leaning against the wall by the door on the opposite end of the room from the bed Macaque was sitting on.

Nearly choking on his last bite in embarrassment and shame at being caught unaware. “What’s it to you Wukong.” Macaque snarled, putting the bowl down and glaring at the other monkey his previous enjoyment forgotten.

“Just want to make sure you don’t pass out again.” Wukong shrugged a tone of nonchalance that almost sounded fake. Which had Macaque suspicious and on edge.

“Well don't plan on doing it again. Matter of fact if you could let me leave now I’ll be out of your way for whatever haired-brained scheme you have to defeat the Lady Bone Demon. Call me when you prevent the end of the world.” Macaque stated and the look of confusion on Wukong’s face had a pit sink into his stomach.

Wukong’s frown wasn’t helping his growing anxiety. “What are you talking about? You can leave if you want to? Think it’s a bad idea though your injuries aren’t healing like they should be.”

That almost sounded worried. Which Macaque knew couldn’t be true the ‘Great Sun Wukong’ couldn’t possibly be worried about him.Two things stood out one that Wukong had no idea that he couldn’t summon his shadows and two that apparently the other had seen his wounds and that apparently they weren’t healed yet. Sure the big ones would take awhile, but why weren’t they at least closed enough that they didn’t look fresh enough for the other monkey to know they were recent?

“What!?” Macaque couldn’t help, but shout even as he felt the ground shake.

Wukong looked concerned as he raced out the door, and Macaque wasn’t far behind. Not intentionally following after the other, but wanting to know what the hell was going on, He really hated his second life right now as the two monkies dashed onto the deck of the ship. The Lady Bone Demon’s thrall had a smirk on his face as the two ran out MK was on the ground clearly having been knocked into the wall as the bent in metal clued them in.

“Kid! You okay!?” Wukong asked in concern as the he helped the human back to his feet.

“I’m okay…that Not-Mayor hits hard…” He mumbled rubbing the back of his head.

“Oh my lady will be most pleased with all three of you in the same place. You were so rude to run away from our Lady..what a bad monkey.” The thrall stated grinning at and looking at Macaque who suppressed the shiver as he felt cold run up his neck.

“Yeah well, her hospitality sucked. Didn’t really want to take the job offer.” Macaque stated dropping into a defensive stance even though it apparently just amused the thrall. Even as Wukong charged and Macaque almost called him an idiot. He could tell the other’s powers didn’t seem any better off then his, but it wasn’t like they could not fight.

*******

The fight did not go well. Wukong didn’t take long to get pinned down with an attack of ice and Macaque managed to get a shot on the thrall in himself after that glad he knew a decent amount of hand to hand combat. Even as MK was trying to free Wukong from the ice pinning him to the ground, but the dark-furred demon didn’t get another chance as the thrall aimed at the stab wound the bastard had caused even as Macaque grunted at the harsh blow ignore the spots in his vision the pain caused, glad he’d somehow managed to bite back the yowl of pain that threatened to escape his mouth. Though it brought him to his knees which allowed the other to pin him down with his foot.

“Such a shame. I was expecting more of the hero and the warrior.” The thrall mocked, grinding his foot into the back of Macaque’s still injured shoulder causing the other to growl at him.

“Hey! Get off him!” MK shouted, apparently having finally freed Wukong holding a crowbar or something made of metal he could get a good look at from his spot on the ground.

“None of you can stop me with.” The thrall chuckled with a grin.

MK looked towards one of the engines and smiled. “Maybe not. But hey, you want to make an omelet, sometimes you gotta break a few engines.”

Both monkies and the thrall looked at MK with looks of confusion.

“I thought it would’ve sounded cool..” He said as he focused back on the task at hand and threw the crowbar which the Not-Mayor easily dodged. “You missed.” The sound of the engineering exploding had the thrall stop his mocking as he lost his balance and fell over the edge shouting. Even as Macaque jumped back up to his feet with a wince.

“Now what!?” Macaque shouted as the vehicle tipped dangerously to the side as the three of them fell the shadow monkey using his tail to prevent MK from falling off as he griped into the side of the ship with his claws.

MK tried to explain how he wanted to do the cool ‘Monkey King thing’ and Macaque rolled his eyes and groaned glaring at Wukong. “Shouldn’t you be teaching him not to be impulsive like you!”

“Shut up! Like you’d do any better!” Wukong glared and MK squeaked in fright.

“Guys!: MK shouted,

“What!” They both yelled at the same time seeing the water fast approaching.

“I hate you guys.” Macaque muttered wondering why he couldn’t catch a break.

Chapter Text

Macaque hated it when his fur got wet, at least when it wasn’t when he was taking a bath. He hated rainstorms for that very reason. It was funny how Wukong didn’t mind it all that much considering he sank like a rock in water that was over his head, but his fur was also thinner and didn’t weigh him down like Macaque’s darker fur did. Of course they had to land in the ocean, because he was starting to suspect the kid and his friends had terrible luck rivaling his these last few days or weeks. He honestly wasn’t sure how long it had been since he’d been caught by that stupid Thrall and now this whole mess with Wukong and MK.

“We’re alive!” The human with glasses was shouting and he would’ve tuned it out if they weren’t all stuck in a little sinking ship.

He tuned out the next two voices as a crack formed and splashed him in the face and he growled at it. “You going to do something there Wukong?” He turned back even as MK stopped whatever he was about to say.

“Huh why a little water never hurt…oh right mortality.” Wukong replied and Macaque had the urge to smack him.

“Why don’t you use your shadow portals?” MK asked suddenly and Macaque had to hold back his wince. He really had wanted to avoid the topic completely. He couldn’t exactly blow off the direct question like he wanted to.

“Um..I can’t.” He answered, looking away before he could see the look on Wukong's face.

“Wait? What do you mean you…” He heard MK start before the airship shook with a few screams of fright from the mortals.

“Don’t worry, I think this is just an old friend of mine here to help out.” Wukong answered and as soon as Macaque noticed what he was talking about he was going to attempt murder regardless of the rest of the audience he would have.

“Though friend might be stretching it.”

******************************

Macaque couldn’t help but sigh in annoyance trying to ignore his growing headache. “Great, you know I’m sure Ao Guang is going to be so happy to see you again.” He muttered under his breath standing next to Wukong who gave a nervous laugh. Even as the others looked at the pair of them in a mix of confusion and concern. Besides Mei who was still excited about being in the Dragon Palace of the East Sea.
“This is where I got the staff.” Wukong stated in clarification.

“You mean you took it?” MK asked and Wukong gave a small awkward laugh.

“Yeah, don’t expect a warm welcome.” Macaque stated crossing his arms.

*******************

“Great locked up again.” Macaque muttered under his breath quiet enough that none of the others heard him even as Wukong and MK watch Pigsy’s attempt to dig them out. Well he had to hand it to the guy for determination.

“My mother was right! Associate with the wrong people and see where you end up!” Tang was apparently freaking out and Macaque scoffed.

“Welcome to being one of Wukong’s ‘friends’. Surprised you guys haven’t gotten into trouble because of his shit yet.” Macaque snarked leaning against the far wall of the cell.

“Nobody asked for your opinion!” Wukong growled back, his eyes narrowing as he stepped forward as he went to confront the dark-furred simian. Who just kept smirking at him.

“What are you going to do about it Monkey King?” Macaque grinned dropping the title in the most sarcastic way he could.

“I’ll show you what I’m going to do about it bud.” Wukong replied with just as much sarcasm.

“Can you two shut up and do something useful! Maybe help us get out of here!?” Pigsy was yelling at them now and Macaque just shrugged.

“Nah that is all you guys, let me know when you get through the wall in five years.” Macaque stated laying on one of the cots. Catching bits of Wukong’s angry muttering.

He was exhausted though and sleep sounded like a good idea right now. He doubted MK would let Wukong murder him in his sleep at least. Hopefully his pounding headache would go away at the very least.

******************************************

"You can’t run away from destiny," The voice whispered as he felt the cold sink into his body again causing him to shiver. She was here! She found him again!

“You still have to fulfill your debt…” The voices continued even as he tried to move away from them and found he was frozen in place.
‘Bring them to me my champion and perhaps you shall avoid punishment.’ At the threat he felt a stabbing pain in his side and couldn’t help the pained whimpered that escaped him,

‘No..No!’ He still couldn’t move, he was going to die again..she was going to kill him this time, He couldn’t go back to the Diyu he couldn’t, he couldn’t. As he felt his heart racing frantically he wondered if dying of a heart attack would be better. Anything but the cold again!

****************

Macaque was infuriating even as the gold-furred monkey watched the other sleep. Spewing insults left and right, not offering any help at all! Wukong was annoyed even if the small fact that his shadow powers were on the fritz should be a concern in a past life. At least that meant he would be easier to fight if he decided to betray them. Wukong couldn’t help but vaguely wonder what twist of fate had led to the unwanted tag along. They weren’t friends anymore, in fact they could barely stand each other, but it was like his instincts were resetting back to the past. When they were still each other’s everything.

That had been centuries ago. Why did he still care now though? His emotions and thoughts were a complete mess. Some part hoped that maybe Macaque had missed the old days too. He really had regretted killing him, but he certainly hadn’t made it easy tolerating him since he came back. Attacking MK had been wrong regardless of how the two of them felt about each other now, but for some reason MK wasn’t against him tagging along.

“He’s hurt, somebody did that. He clearly must be scared of them if he’s sticking with us.”

MK had explained to him back on the airship before their crash landing. How was it that the kid was able to read Macaque like that when he couldn’t anymore? Well that wasn’t completely true the other still had his sarcasm and snark from their younger days it was just more malicious and mean these days. He could still tell when he was hiding something, even if had no idea what it was.

He barely even noticed when the subject of his thoughts started mumbling in his sleep. Though he wasn’t saying anything understandable from what he could tell. The other was clearly having a nightmare, and perhaps it was nostalgia or those instincts that he couldn’t completely snuff out that caused him to attempt to wake the other. When his hand made contact with the other’s shoulder he felt a wave of panic in his heart. He was freezing cold! It reminded him of when he was….

“Wake up! I’m sorry, wake up! Please!”

No couldn’t think of that, he was still breathing and the mutters were quiet enough the other three hadn’t noticed yet.

“Come on Macaque wake up.” He started shaking him gently, noticing the other flinching as if he was in pain. Even as he noticed the wetness on his side from the still healing injury. He must’ve torn it open somehow.

“Cold..” Was the first word he managed to understand even as the other opened his eyes still in a daze of some sort.

“Macaque? You okay?” Wukong asked masking his concern with a more neutral expression and tone.

“Wukong? What are you?” It took the dark furred monkey only a couple of seconds to sit up and realize what had happened.

“I’m awake, go away.” He swatted the hand that was still on his shoulder away even as he looked down.

“Why were you so cold?” Wukong asked and Macaque glared at him.

“Why do you care? I said leave me alone.” Macaque growled again, turning away from the other to emphasize he was done talking.

“Fine! Be that way then. Next time I’ll just let you keep sleeping.” Wukong huffed and as soon as he said that he knew he didn’t actually mean it.

Macaque glanced back at the other and looked down again. He missed the warmth the other had unknowingly provided his body actually felt warm where the other’s hand had been. He had to force himself to tell the other to leave. Why was he thinking of missing it? Wukong had killed him, he was only tolerating him now out of necessity and nothing more. He didn’t even know why he had bothered to wake him up from that stupid nightmare.

Looking down at his side as he felt the blood drip down the injury. Maybe that was where that pain in his dream had come from. It had felt so real though the cold chains keeping him in place. He suppressed the shiver at the memory even as he moved his shirt to look at the wound; it hadn't bleed all the way through the bandages, but he would have to change them once they were out of here.

*******************

He had lost count of how many times Wukong and he had to bust out of cells in the past, but they had never actually had a van crash through the wall before any of those times. Their escape wasn’t anything overly spectacular, but Ao Guang had at least let them go with some convincing. He was glad the other had managed to fight off the Thrall at least, but a disturbing thought came to mind. How had he known where they were?

Chapter Text

This was the stupidest situation he’d ever been in. From soaking went in the ocean to a bone dry desert. He was sure the gods above were laughing at him at this point, and honestly if he wasn’t one of the unlucky people in this situation he would probably find it funny too. Macaque couldn’t help the groan that escaped him as he rubbed the sweat from his face, his fur was not meant for the heat, and Wukong had apparently decided to check on and mediate to get his powers recharged. Which was the other’s simian’s excuse to escape the terrible heat, and he had half a mind to bump him on the head for it. He didn’t have the luxury of doing that one of the two of them had to keep their wits about them. Not that either of them were the most useful with a limited power supply, but MK was slightly worse off in the power department then either of them were.

Kid was stressed out and it was showing bad as the nervous fiddling was an indication even as the human couldn’t seem to sit still. “Kid you’re going to get yourself worked up for no reason.” Macaque muttered from his spot lying on one of the beds, opting to stay as far away from the mortals and Wukong as possible. Which wasn’t a lot of space considering the vehicle didn’t have rooms like the jet had, bigger than most vans, but still he mourned the loss of privacy. He had yet to get a chance to change his bandage and the blood was drying and making it sticky and even more uncomfortable in the heat.

“But..how am I supposed to protect anybody if I don’t have my powers? I’m not the strong one anymore.” MK muttered looking down at his feet and Macaque sighed. He was really starting to regret his whole lanturn stunt if this was where the kid’s mindset was. Clearly he already had a selfless streak in him that would rival any of Wukong’s selfish ways back in the past, or even currently. Though even he had to admit Wukong didn’t seem to have as much of it as he used to, or at least he cared more about the kid than himself, Macaque wasn’t going to admit that out loud.

“Well I’m sure they’ll come back in time, maybe you could try the meditating thing like Wukong. Your powers are the same as his after all.” Macaque offered the suggestion with a shrug.

“Um…I don’t know how to meditate..” MK admitted with a small laugh.

Macaque barely suppressed the urge to facepalm. Wukong was a terrible teacher if he hadn’t taught MK that much of a basic recharging strategy.

“Why am I not surprised that idiot didn’t show you? Alright I’ll teach you the basics of mediation then. Maybe show the moron who the better teacher is.” Macaque couldn’t help the jab towards the other even if MK gave him a small knowing eye roll.
*****************

They stopped for a bit as soon as night fell and the desert air wasn’t so stifling even if the night air was still warm. Macaque always did prefer the light of the stars and moon over the blistering sunlight, it was too warm and could burn anybody that was in its sight too long. The dark-furred monkey however had another task in hand to distract him from any lingering thoughts that would go too close to a certain gold-furred simian.

“Alright kid. First you need to clear your mind and try to remain calm.” Macaque explained to his temporary student as MK nodded his tongue partially sticking out in concentration. The monkey almost chuckled at the expressions the other was shifting through.

“Don’t stress either. The point is to relax enough to channel your magic, and you can’t do that if you are too tense to focus on it.” He continued watching the human’s shoulders relax slightly more.

It was a relatively slow process partially due to MK’s inability to hold still, which was probably just due to how energetic he was regularly and meditation wasn’t exactly a fun or interesting ability to learn. Macaque was at least patient enough to not get irritated at the process. Honestly it was better if the kid got his powers back as quick as possible after all it was for his own safety if all the capable fighters were at full power. That was the only reason he was entertaining the idea, well and the idea of ticking Wukong off by teaching MK something before him.

While the glow that formed around the mortal wasn’t as bright as Wukong’s was it was still progress, and any progress was always a good sign. ‘Good job kid.’ He thought to himself not helping the tiny smile that followed it.

************

“Are you hungry?” Macaque frowned slightly at the offered bowl of noodles from the very jumpy human with glasses. The other had been actively avoiding him, which Macaque was fine with the less people he had to deal with the better.

“Relax, I'm not going to bite you or anything.” Macaque responded by grabbing the bowl before his stomach could make any embarrassing sounds this time.

“Oh good. I was kind of worried you’d drop me through a shadow or something.” The human laughed awkwardly even as Macaque scoffed slightly.

“Not like I could even if I wanted to, but thanks for the food.” He finished ending the conversation with a bite of noodles as the human took that as a sign that the other was done talking.

Didn’t mean it lasted long, because as soon as he was done with his food the human came back with a notebook in his hand.

“Is it true you have six ears!?” The human asked apparently anxiousness forgotten in the pursuit of knowledge.

“Why do you think I’m called the six-eared Macaque?” The other asked, raising an eyebrow wanting to get out of this surprise interview as soon as possible. Even as he noticed MK looking over at him from his own bowl of food. How much did the kid expect him to humor his friends anyway?

************************

Macaque had somehow managed to tactfully escape by telling the human, Tang MK had said his name was, by saying he was tried. While it wasn’t exactly a lie he was tired, but he really needed to change his bandages and everybody else was outside. Even Wukong was out of his mediation for free food, which was typical of the other. It brought back memories of teasing the other simian for it, and that had been enough remembering he wanted to do for now.

Finding the bandages wasn’t too hard, but the fact the medical supplies were in a higher cupboard made him growl in frustration. There weren’t any good ways to climb up and stretching his arms above his head made the wound in his side pull painfully, but he could do this without help. He wasn’t helpless for gods sake. Managing to open the cupboard was easy, but catching the tumbling pile of supplies didn’t exactly end in his favor as he landed on the ground landing on his tail which hurt, but only enough to be a small annoyance. It was more the loud crash of the various jars that made him wince.

‘Shit’ He thought as he heard footsteps coming towards him.

“Are you alright Mr.Maquack?” That was the blue guy, Sandy if he remembered right.

“It’s Macaque, and I’m fine.” He responded trying his best not to be snippy, but only barely managing it.

“Oh I bet you need those bandages changed.” Sandy continued even as he grabbed the spilled bandage roll and antibacterial ointment.

“I can do it myself.” Macaque muttered even as he yelped in surprise as the large blue demon set him down on one of the beds.

“Of course, but when you have friends you don’t have to do everything by yourself.”Sandy added cheerfully, apparently ignoring Macaque’s attempt to get him to go away.

Friends though? That was a bit of a stretch if he was honest. Sure he wasn’t actively snapping at all of them, but that was more out of the concept of safety in numbers then any actual connection between him and the rest of the group.

“I’m not your friend..” Macaque muttered quietly even as Sandy shook his head.

“Of course you are! After all MK doesn’t think you’re a bad guy, and he is really good at making friends.”

Macaque did laugh lightly at that one. “Kid’s just too stubborn to let anybody not be friends with him then.”

Sandy gave him a small smile as he pulled the bandages off of the wound as Macaque winced slightly. The small gasp the other demon gave him did not give the monkey a good feeling about what he would see when he looked down. It looked red and infected, but it wasn’t warm. If anything when Macaque tried to put his hand on it, it was the exact opposite.

“That isn’t normal is it?” He asked though it was more akin to fear that he felt crawling up his spin.

“No..it should be warm if it’s infected.” Sandy replied, baffled.

“Just bandage it for now. I’m sure it’ll start healing soon.” Macaque put confidence in his voice even if the other gave him a skeptical look, but did as he asked all the same.

********************

Macaque didn’t meditate generally, but at this point he needed something to focus on other than what was going on with the wound on his side. Besides he was sick of not being able to use any of his powers. As he closed his eyes and felt his magic swirl underneath his skin barely there, but trying to come to his call. Even as he felt some of it return, the feeling of cold started crawling into it. Even as he felt foreign magic mixed with his. As his eyes opened in shock and felt the pain in his side again. Noticing the blue that swirled and disappeared quickly. He recognized that color…

He didn’t notice the other presence nearby who had come looking for him when they noticed he wasn’t sleeping like everybody else had been at the late hour it was. Gold vision still activated as he noticed the blue magic and the other panicked expression. What was the Lady Bone Demon’s magic doing to the shadow user, and how had it gotten there? The question swirled in his mind and he knew he was going to have to confront the other about it, but he didn’t look forward to the conversation in the least bit. The concern he was feeling wasn’t about to let him ignore it though.

Chapter Text

Macaque really didn’t want to go back to the van, but it was already sunrise he was tired and stressed out more now than before. He didn’t know exactly what to do with the revelation that he had the Lady Bone Demon’s magic infecting his, and he couldn’t help but wonder what her plan was by doing so. Sure her thrall had stabbed him there, but they couldn’t have known he was going to run at the time right? The demon may claim to be on the side of ‘Destiny” but he doubted she was clairvoyant. Though he couldn’t really dwell on that even as he made his way into the campsite vaguely aware of another pair of eyes on his back. Recognizing the feeling and turning to glare at the culprit.

“What do you want Wukong?.” He asked sharply, still glaring even as the other held up his hands as if in surrender to appease him. Like that would be enough.

“Wondered where you went. You were gone awhile.” Wukong tried to play it off, but Macaque could hear an unvoiced question in that sentence.

“Needed to get away from you for a while. Can only take so much of your annoying presence.” He responded in sarcasm even as the other clearly was trying not to snap at him with caused a smirk to cross his face. Regardless how stressed he was ticking Wukong off was a great stress reliever.

“Alright fine be that way. Why do you have the Lady Bone Demon’s magic in you?” Wukong asked. He was not in the mood to deal with the other’s attempt at annoying him or deflecting the conversation regardless of how neither one of them wanted to have the conversation clearly. Better to get it over with in Wukong’s opinion, though it is a mix of concern and now annoyance that prompted him to start the conversation faster then he had originally planned. So much for easing into it.

Macaque froze in concern at the fact that Wukong somehow knew about it already. He had absolutely no intention of saying anything to any of them, least of all his former friend. “Why do you care? It’s not your problem, it’s mine and I’ll take care of it alone!” He growled in response. Walking away before a hand grabbed his wrist.

“It is my problem, you know we’re running away from her! Are you spying for her! Is that what this whole thing is to you, a way to trick all of us into caring about you so we’ll lower our guard!” Wukong was raising his voice and Macaque clenched his fist as he turned around fast punching the other in the face, knocking him onto his back from the suddenness of it.

Macaque was panting in anger at the accusation. “I don’t want to have anything to do with the Lady Bone Demon! The only reason I have to deal with her at all is because of you! You know how terrible it is in the DIyu! It was torture! I wasn’t going to turn down any opportunity to get out even if it was owing her something! I ran away from that deal as soon as I got back and look where it got me on her list just like you and the kid. Even when I try to be rid of you I still get pulled back!” Macaque raised his own voice and heard the others stirring probably due to their increasingly loud fight.

“I..” Wukong couldn’t think of a good response that would convey everything he wanted to say. He had wondered how Macaque had come back after he’d killed him, but to think the Lady Bone Demon herself was involved had never crossed his mind. He had tried to bring his friend back, but he hadn’t been able to find him. Now he wondered if that hadn’t been planned somehow.

“You always leave me behind. This time I’m leaving you, believe whatever you want I don’t need any of you!” Macaque finished even as he kept walking away from the camp even as the others came out to investigate what was going on.

*********************

Wukong barely was aware of MK asking him if he was okay even as the kid pulled him back up to his feet. As much as he hated to admit it Macaque had been partially right. For as long as they had known each other he’d always left him to seek more sources of immortality, and more ways to get stronger. He hadn’t meant to neglect his moon he really hadn’t but he hadn’t been the best at thinking about how the other was feeling everytime he left. Was that part of the reason he was so bitter and angry? Nevermind the killing him, which was something he had always regretted one of the last times he had truly lost control in anger himself.

He hadn’t meant to cause him pain, but he had. Wukong wanted to apologize for that at the very least. However it was hard even if he wanted to tell him everything about how he had felt back then, and even now. A part of him longed to have his warrior near him again, but all they had now was tense and bitter reminders of what they used to be.

“I have to go after him..” Wukong voiced even as the group looked at him with mixes of confusion and concern.

“Are you sure?” MK asked giving Wukong the ability to have somebody else go, but know he knew it had to be him.

*****************

Macaque wanted to scream why had he blurted all that out!? He hadn’t wanted Wukong to know all of that; he was just so mad and hurt. It hurt for him to show him any kind of concern, because he knew it was fake. If he cared for him then he wouldn’t have killed him in the first place! Though a part of him knew that he had egged on the fight that had ended his first life, but he had thought Wukong wouldn’t take it that far, but then again he had kept pushing even when he knew he was going to lose. Maybe he was stupid for that, but he couldn’t admit that to anybody it was hard to admit that to himself. He had been jealous and angry that Wukong had gone off with his new friends and seemed to forget about him entirely.

He was walking without direction now even as he sensed something in the wind as the sun rose higher in the sky. Macaque wondered if the group had left yet, but if he listened he could still hear them in the distance so maybe they were waiting for him to come back. It was foolish of them to do so, he didn’t know why they thought he was coming back. Sure walking into a random direction wasn’t the best idea. Oasis or not it was still in the desert which he was reminded by as the trees started thinning out a bit.

Sitting down as he felt exhaustion creeping up again. He had to find a way to forcefully expel the Lady Bone Demon’s magic, especially if it was interfering with recovering his own. He was going to be on his own; he couldn't afford to be defenseless. Even as he focused on drawing on his shadow magic around the cold foreign magic. It was starting to hurt, but he ignored it as his shadows pushed against it slowly foreign pieces of it out. It wasn’t going fast enough even as he felt the sweat on his face. It was taking a toll on him and he knew that, but he needed it out now! Even as he felt something rip on his side even as another large part of the magic was forced out. He couldn’t get farther even as he tipped over and passed out energy spent and not knowing how much he had managed to expel.

***********************

Wukong felt the magic swirling before he saw it. He had a feeling Macaque was trying to do something stupid. Expelling foreign magic with your own could be dangerous, especially if you used too much of your own to do it. The dark-furred monkey barely had access to his powers now either, which just spelled disaster even as Wukong picked up speed. Sensing the danger in the air even as he came on the small clearing in the trees as the other collapsed and he panicked as he ran to the fallen warrior with a frown on his face.

The blood on his hand made it clear the infected wound was open again, but as Wukong pulled back the other’s shirt to look he frowned at the size of it. It had at least doubled in size and looked deeper like the magic had ripped through it when it was expelled. Even as Wukong used his gold vision to see the Bone Demon’s magic was still there though not as much of it as before.

“Macaque what did you do to yourself..” Wukong frowned even as the other started paling even as he held on to him. He didn’t have a choice he wouldn’t make it back to camp like this, and as much of his recovering energy it would use he couldn’t let him bleed out. Not again. He had taught himself some minor healing spells, but at least he could stop this from getting worse.

Focusing his golden colored magic into the other’s wound even as he felt it stitching together with his magic. It was a stubborn wound curiosity of the Bone Demon he was sure, and he would gladly kick her ass as soon as he was strong enough again to do it. Even as he felt his energy start fading he was glad to see the wound was finally thinned out and stopped bleeding. The warrior would be okay even if he was going to be angry that he was carrying him back to the van he couldn’t leave him like this. He couldn’t leave him again, they would have to have a proper conversation when he woke up, but for now he would let him rest. He would need to meditate again to recover what he just used up, but he didn’t regret it even as he looked at Macaque’s face he looked like he wasn’t pained in his sleep which he found he was grateful for even as the others looked at him silently as he laid the other down in one of the beds knowing he would probably need to sleep a good while with how his magic was down to only a sliver of what it should be.

Chapter Text

Normally he didn’t mind traveling centuries ago in his younger days Wukong couldn’t get enough of exploring the world. This however was the exact opposite of a fun journey. They had the Lady Bone Demon to contend with and they had to find pieces of the Samadhi Fire as well. Sure he could keep up the mask of a positive and confident attitude, but deep down he knew there were so many things that could go wrong. He hadn’t even told them his whole plan yet, which was just another pit of guilt eating at his heart. How could he tell them though? MK and his friends were so hopeful he couldn’t tell them he was basically making it up as he went. Wukong sighed as he sat down on the floor of the TEA glancing over at the only other current occupant.

Macaque was still out cold, and while the golden-furred monkey wasn’t surprised it was unsettling to see him so still. Sure he was still breathing, but it was easy to miss if he wasn’t watching the other so intently. He really did need to talk to him when he woke up, but it was another point of anxiety trying to figure out how exactly to start the conversation that wouldn’t end up in another fight. How to go about it now though? Start with an apology maybe, but would the dark-furred demon even believe he was genuine? Wukong sighed in frustration there was nothing he could do about it now.

“Why are you so stubborn?” Wukong whispered even though he got no response.

Like you’re one to talk Wukong.

He cursed how his inner voice apparently wanted to start sounding like the sleeping warrior all of a sudden. He couldn’t deny that it was accurate though. They’d both been stubborn and it was one of the reasons they could rile each other up, but also it used to come with mutual understanding of each other in the old days. Wukong was really starting to miss the old days, not all of them he had been reckless back then more brutal too. He was glad for the ways he had changed and grown wiser, but there were still regrets of losing things he had wanted to keep. His relationship with Macaque was one of the things he had regretted the most.

The faint whispers made him tense as he turned on his gold vision and he glared at the glowing blue ghosts that were a part of the Lady Bone Demon’s powers as they seemed to float above the bandaged wound. “Tell your master she can’t have him.” He hissed out in threat even as the ghosts seemed to respond to the threat with a hiss of their own. Even as they faded away he could still feel the chill they left behind.

Noticing his shadow shivering in his sleep he pulled a blanket over him as the shivering subsided. He was going to be glad when they could defeat the Lady Bone Demon. Maybe, just maybe they could have a moment when the world wasn’t ending to talk properly. Though he knew he couldn’t wait that long though. As much as Macaque irritated him he didn’t want him to run off again. He couldn’t help the worry that he’d lose him all over again. The idea made him feel sick to his stomach. What the point of infecting Macaque with her magic was but clearly the Lady Bone Demon had a plan that involved the shadow and he didn’t like that idea one bit.

Knowing nothing was changing for the moment, the smell of food brought Wukong out of the van after one last look over at the other occupant before following his stomach. He had to hand it to MK's dad(?) the guy made some good food. He noticed that MK was strangely absent from the group which was odd and had him a bit tense. Wukong couldn’t help the protective streak that was starting to arise. He knew the kid could handle himself of course, but after failing to show up in time to stop him from getting hurt he didn’t like having him out of the group’s line of sight either.

“Where’s MK?” He asked as calmly as possible. To which Mei answered pointing her hand off to the distance looking up from her phone with a look he couldn’t interpret from her. Either she was annoyed with him or wanted to say something as was holding back from speaking. Honestly Wukong wasn’t sure which would be the better option at this point.

“Um thanks.” He responded a bit awkwardly as he walked in the direction that the other had indicated.

*************

He figured MK might’ve been working on trying to get his powers back, but Wukong hadn’t been expecting to see the other meditating. He hadn’t taught him that, but yet here his student was glowing a faint gold though it clearly wasn’t as deep a meditation as he could get into Wukong was still impressed to see it.

“Hey kid, you should come to get something to eat.” Wukong stated breaking the other out of his state easily knowing it was only a light meditation and the mortal wasn’t unaware of the outside world.

“Oh yeah! Hey Monkey King! How is Macaque doing?” MK asked quickly after greeting his mentor with a grin on his face.

“He’s doing fine just sleeping. He used too much magic.” Wukong answered, leaving out the exact details until the other was awake to explain himself and his stupid rashness which was a funny thought if only because it would’ve probably been the reverse when they were younger. He used to be the rash and reckless one.

“When did you learn to meditate, kid?” Wukong asked, his voice filled with curiosity. He knew he hadn’t taught him it, which was probably an oversight on his part. He really should’ve shown him in the case of situations like the one they were currently in. He wondered if the kid had picked it up on his own. There were quite a few things he had picked up even while he had been gone chasing after a way to defeat the Lady Bone Demon.

“Macaque taught me a few days ago.” MK explained with a grin on his face.

Wukong was honestly surprised the other monkey had decided to teach MK something that was useful like that. While sure the other had plenty of skills of his own and he had mentored the kid briefly before, but that had only been for the purpose of stealing his powers. The fact he had actually wanted to do something to legitimately help the kid made him realize that the kind warrior he grew up with was still in there somewhere under all the bitterness and standoff nature he’d developed since his return. Maybe some form of reconciliation wasn’t as impossible as he initially thought.

“He did well, I guess I’ll have to thank him for doing something useful for once when he wakes up.” Wukong replied with a teasing tone to his voice instead of annoyance which apparently made MK chuckle a bit even as the two went back to get something to eat.

************************

MK went off with Sandy and Mei the next day to attempt to access his powers again. As Wukong decided he had put off meditating long enough. Macaque was still sleeping and other than some twitches every once and awhile he didn’t appear to be waking up anytime soon. He could sense his magic was recovering at least so at least the dark-furred monkey was out of danger.

Concentrating on reaching his state of meditation as he let the world fade out of awareness. Wukong took a deep breath, surely everything would be fine for a few hours.

********************

Macaque never got used to being jolted awake, and it certainly didn’t help that he fell off the bed he was laying on in the process as something rattled the van. Wait, van? How did he get back to the TEA exactly? He remembered passing out after expelling some of the Lady Bone Demon’s magic, but he had no sense of how long ago that had been. The frantic voices made him focus on the current moment however as Pigsy and Tang were panicking about whatever was shaking the van. Probably a demon trying to get an easy meal, but where were the others exactly? Noticing the glowing from Wukong which answered why he hadn’t taken care of the problem already.

“What’s going on?” He asked the other two who apparently weren’t listening to him even as he stood up and wobbled a bit as another hard strike to the van shook it again.

“We’re being attacked!” Tang yelled loud enough to cause him to wince slightly.

“Obviously!” Pigsy yelled as ran forward with some kind of pepper in his hand.
“Wait, stop!” Macaque yelled when the realization of what the pig planned on doing set in, but he wasn’t fast enough to stop him.

***********

Macaque wanted to scream at the idiot pig that apparently had been warned that it was dangerous to wake Wukong up from his meditation. Great dealing with Wukong was already a chore and now he had his memories reset by centuries. He was glad he hadn’t been noticed from his spot in the shadows. He was half tempted to take off right there to avoid the whole situation, but a part of him was worried about leaving the other two with Wukong in this state. Sure he’d protect them, but he was also mistaking a stick for his staff so… His confidence in his former friend’s ability to do anything wasn’t exactly super high.

“Um..do you know how to fix this?” Tang asked Macaque as Wukong and Pigsy were fighting, apparently about something and were unaware of the other two.

“Not a clue. It might wear off eventually.” Macaque answered with a shrug of his shoulders even if the human’s face fell at the answer. Well it wasn’t like he had any clue about it either. Nobody had been stupid enough to wake him up like this before as far as he could remember.

“Hey let’s all calm down now.” Tang finally said as the two started getting more heated and that was when Wukong of course turned and noticed him standing there.

He didn’t know what he expected the other monkey’s reaction to him to be, but being tackled into a sudden crushing hug wasn’t it especially considering the last time he had seen Wukong at this point in his memories was their fight in the mountain.

“Macaque! What are you doing here!?” Wukong sounded excited and apparently it was a shock for Pigsy and Tang if their looks of surprise were anything to go by.

They had been barely tolerating each other before this point, so it probably was weird to see the Monkey King hugging somebody that seemed to actively despise him. Macaque’s heart was racing though he couldn’t place the emotion that was causing it. It wasn’t fear at least, but he didn’t want to admit his missed seeing Wukong happy to see him.

“Um..I came to look for you.” Macaque answered and it wasn’t like he was lying per say he had gone to look for the other during his journey though it hadn’t ended well for him.

“Oh really! Oh right! I forgot to tell you about the journey! Oh, I'll introduce you to my Master! They’ll like you I’m sure. I have to finish this quest and then I’ll be back on the mountain with you in no time!” Wukong was rattling off in eagerness.

“You’re not..you’re actually coming back..” Macaque trailed off, realizing that Wukong had planned to come back to him. He’d assumed the other had forgotten about him completely, but the fact he hadn’t made his heart hurt. Could things have turned out differently if he actually talked to Wukong instead of assuming he was replacing him? If he hadn’t attacked them and goaded his friend into a fight? If Wukong hadn’t lost his temper and killed him? He wished he could stop his thoughts from spiraling, but he couldn’t stop them once they started.

“Bud? You okay?” Wukong’s voice cut through the haze of memories and what ifs even as he gave a nod.

“Yeah I’m fine.” Macaque answered and before the conversation could continue they heard Tang scream as he was pulled away by a scorpion demon.

**************************

He had to admit that it was nice to fall back into the comfortable routine that they used to have. Even if it was pretend, and when Wukong got his memory back they would be back at each other’s throats. Then again maybe not, he had sensed Wukong’s magic on the wound on his side like the other had poured his magic in to heal it. They used to share magic back in the day, but he hadn’t expected the other to be willing to do it now. Hadn’t expected to be brought back to the group either. Wukong hadn’t just left him behind or alone this time, and it seemed like he hadn’t intended to after his escape from the mountain either.

Macaque stayed back away from Pigsy and Wukong following them slower, observing the gold-furred monkey with a nostalgic and sad yearning as he recognized little quirks that the other still had from their days lounging on the beach on Flower Fruit Mountain. He was starting to realize that he missed the other more than he could ever admit out loud. Even if his death still hurt, and as much as he wanted to avoid it. He had to know if Wukong had intended to kill him or not, or if he felt remorse for it.. The way he was happy to see him made him question his memory of events and how much was his jealousy and anger that had clouded his perspective.

He almost chuckled at Wukong summoning the local Tudi, especially the look on Pigsy’s face. Hey this was his fault so he deserved to deal with the antics and time consuming stories that the other monkey was absorbed in. He’d already listened in on Tang to make sure the human wasn’t going to get eaten, and he was fine since all the Scorpion Queen was doing was apparently feeding him.

********************

Taking on the Scorpion Queen was easy enough; she wasn’t exactly tough even if Wukong freaked out when his ‘staff’ broke. There was the temper that Macaque knew was still there, and he had to hide the flinch he had at the familiar temper even if it wasn’t directed at him. He got pulled into the group hug even as Wukong smiled. Friends he missed having one, but he supposed maybe he was getting more than that now. Maybe just maybe being part of this group wasn’t so bad after all.

*******************
“Hey” Macaque spoke barely able to put words to what he wanted to ask Wukong, and he knew he could probably get an honest and easy answer out of him in this state. When Tang finished whatever plan he had thought of when he ran off he wasn’t sure if he could ask later.

“Did you really plan to come back? Even after our fight? I mean I got the feeling you didn’t want to see me again.” Macaque stated looking down at his hands. He figured Wukong probably wouldn’t remember this conversation anyway, or at least he somewhat hoped he didn’t.

“What!? Of course I did! No way I’d just abandon my best friend because of one big fight! Besides, it wasn't like you were completely wrong about what you said…” Wukong’s voice trailed off and Macaque noticed he was looking down now too.

“Well I shouldn’t have blown up either.” The warrior conceded and he could’ve handled it better. He was young back then too and hadn’t exactly factored in how frustrated Wukong would’ve been being trapped. Maybe he could’ve shown more patience and understanding back then, but he guessed that was the thing about hindsight.

“I really did miss you.” Wukong stated with a small smile.

“I missed you too.” Macaque answered back and found he actually meant it and maybe in this situation he could say it out loud.

***************

Tang’s plan literally involved dropping a boulder on Wukong’s head, which was mildly funny and also somewhat dangerous for the two mortals, but it wasn’t for the seven times immortal. Even though he couldn’t remember exactly what happened. Wukong felt confused about what happened and the nasty spicy taste in his mouth, but he supposed he would just have to figure out what the gapes in his memory of how he got outside happened.

“Bought time you came back to your senses Wukong.” Macaque’s voice said even as he noticed the other was awake.

Now he knew he was definitely missing some time. “Um, what happened?” Asked the gold furred monkey noticing the guilty looks on Pigsy’s and Tang’s faces.

“Well um…””

********************

“Listen, I'm sorry about what I said before. I know it’s not that you want to work with the Lady Bone Demon. Guess I didn’t know how to say I was worried about you and did the opposite.” Wukong muttered, rubbing the back of his head as Macaque opened his good eye from where he was leaning against the van’s wall. They were back on the road looking for MK, Mei, and Sandy who had apparently gone missing back at their last campsite. Which was concerning, but they were sure the three of them were capable of handling themselves.

“Yeah well. You are kind of an idiot so not surprised you put your foot in your mouth.” Macaque responded with a smirk.

“Hey! I’m trying to apologize here!” Wukong huffed, crossing his arms.

“I know..thanks by the way.” He finished even if he didn’t specify what he was thanking the other for it could go unsaid for now. A thanks for not leaving him behind this time, or a thanks for trying to help him heal both were things he was grateful for at least.

“No problem, I have to watch out for my warrior, don't I?” Wukong added with a soft smile that made Macaque’s cold heart warm again as if the sun itself was heating him from the inside.

Chapter Text

It didn't take long to find MK and the others as the kid literally crashed landed on the TEA with the first ring no less. Of course the concerning fact that the Thrall had nearly captured them was less exciting even as MK was eager to share the fact he finally got his shape-shifting power back even if he was being purposefully vague about the details. Apparently it hadn't been a fun experience whatever it had happened and Wukong wasn't going to press him, and Macaque was curious but the less he thought about the Lady Bone Demon and her Thrall the better he felt. Maybe that was pathetic, but he couldn't help the chill that ran up his spine at the thought of them.

Macaque was currently leaning against a tree as the rest of the group minus Wukong, and MK set up camp for the night. He supposed he could've helped a bit, but at the moment he was more focused on feeling how much of his own magic and powers had recovered. He was happy to feel like they had recovered a lot more then before. He didn't know if it was the boost to healing that Wukong had given him or the fact he didn't have as much of the Lady Bone Demon's messing with it anymore. He clenched his fists at the thought at that. She apparently must've wanted him to stay weak, probably until he agreed to be another one of her little pawns.

It pissed him off, but there wasn't anything he could do about it now. If anything he just really wanted to hurry and get the rest of the rings, but that map was pretty much useless in his opinion. The dark-furred monkey had no idea why Wukong had bothered stealing it, unless he wasn't saying something. Was it really his right to press the other though? Sure they were on better terms, but it wasn't like they were going to be spilling secrets to each other like gossiping teenagers. Though the idea was somewhat funny even if he couldn't help the small amused look on his face.

"You look like you're in a better mood." The gold-furred monkey greeted with a teasing tone even as Macaque turned his head in acknowledgement.

"Yeah well, a bit of sleep helped. Also think I got a few of my tricks back." Macaque smirked as one of his shadow clones pulled Wukong's tail before vanishing.

"Hey!" Wukong shouted at the tail pulling but then grinned a bit.

"Good the more of us that can fight the faster we can take her down." He added with a smile and nod of his head.

"Well this Samadhi Fire plan of yours better work, don't think I really want to see how she reacts if our attack fails." Macaque added crossing his arms even as he noticed the slightly nervous twitching Wukong was making.

"Nah don't worry bud it will work out just fine."

************

"A race?" MK asked mildly confused at his mentor's suggestion.

"Yeah bud! After all what better way to practice your shape-shifting now that you got it back?" The gold-furred monkey stated with a bright smile even as MK gave a small nod.

"I mean I guess that makes sense." He stated even as Macaque chuckled even as he walked over to the other two.

"Don't worry kid I'll go easy on you." Macaque added with a sly smirk even as MK sputtered a bit and Wukong had a look of confusion before giving way to a smile.

"You're racing too?" MK asked not knowing if he should be worried or not.

"Yeah, have to make sure Wukong doesn't pull any tricks on you after all." The warrior stated with a shrug of his shoulders.

"Me pull tricks? Look who's talking you were always the one cheating with your shadow portals!?" Wukong huffed crossing his arms.

"Somebody is just a sore loser, besides you were the one who always said we could use any of our powers. Not my fault you forgot half of mine." He finished even as Wukong did the very mature thing of sticking out his tongue which even had MK laughing.

*****************

Macaque couldn't help but love the feeling of flying while sure it was far from the most exciting thing that his powers could do. He really loved the feeling of leaving the ground behind on occasion. The wound on his side still hurt a bit with a lot of flapping of his wings, but it didn't bother him bad enough to sit out even as he caught sight of Wukong and MK ahead of him a bit. Kid was keeping up with Wukong pretty good even if he could tell the other was holding back his full speed. He probably was helping to build the kid's confidence back up. Which wasn't a bad idea. Macaque could recognize the signs of confidence issues, he'd had a few back when he was young. Ironically it was Wukong that had convinced him he was just as good as he was. Was strong enough to stand by his side even if he wasn't as strong as him.

Focusing back on the race before he started sinking back into a nostalgia trip. After all he wasn't about to come in last place. Even as he picked up his speed flapping his wings faster as he gained ground on the other two with a knowing smirk even as he dived down before swooping up in front of Wukong causing him to spin off course to avoid him. Even as MK gained ground in the process of his aerial maneuver. Even as he couldn't help the small chuckle even as he felt his tail feathers get pulled. Oh so Wukong wanted to play that game huh? Well who was he to ignore a challenge like that.

Even as he spun and slammed back into the other getting a grip of his tail that Wukong had never managed to change during his shape-shifting even as the two dive rolled towards the ground. Landing on the ground and changing into his wolf form and Wukong changed into a tiger but Macaque tackled him into a roll even as he pinned the other for a short second before he felt a tail wrap around his back leg. Now he was pinned even as they both turned back to their original forms Wukong laughing as he smirked. I win, got you Mac."

"Only because I let you win. Besides it you could actually change your tail you wouldn't have been able to pull that off." Macaque stated amused even as he used his own tail to pull Wukong down, but all that did was make the sage land on him instead of falling backwards.

A grunt and a wince made Wukong jump off him even as he looked at him like he was going to collapse or something. "I'm fine Wukong." Macaque stated sitting up with a wince he didn't quite manage to hide.

"Are you sure? Maybe we pushed too hard?" The other monkey suggested and Macaque scoffed.

"Need to practice and train too you know. Can't be the warrior if I can't fight can I?" He asked and Wukong's face fell slightly.

"You don't always need to be the one fighting though, you can take a break every once and awhile."

"Maybe when the world isn't ending I'll think about a vacation. Heard a place that is great this time of year." Macaque joked back even as he got back to his feet.

****************

"I won! I can't believe I won!" MK cheered excitedly when Wukong and Macaque made it back to the campsight that had been the finish line even as the rest of the group raised eyebrows. Probably due to the fact they were both covered in leaves and dirt from their little playful wrestling he'd have to clean his fur later.

"Great job kid, knew you could do it!" Wukong stated ever being the proud mentor that Macaque couldn't help but fondly smile from his spot in the shadows. Even as the three of them settled in for dinner. As much as he hated to admit it but that race had worn him out. It was frustrating that he still wasn't up to full power yet, but it was a lot better then before where even one transformation would've probably set him to his knees. He'd just have to appreciate what he managed to get back for now.

****************

The second ring was on the moon, which was a surprise to say the least. Macaque couldn't help but wonder if that supposed 'Destiny' wasn't on the Lady Bone Demon's side as much as she liked to use the word apparently. He was starting to wonder if it wasn't on their side this time. Boy that might be fun to rub that in her smug face when they found the last one. Though for now he knew he was not getting in a rocket ship when Wukong was the one that was behind the wheel. He enjoyed living and a crash landing seemed like a bad idea for one's health. He honestly pitied Pigsy and MK, but hey somebody had to get the ring.

"Have fun." He couldn't help the smirk on his face even though the other two were whining about not being able to go with. Making sure his muffling spells were on full power before the rocket blasted off even as he noticed that Mei and Tang got over their disappointment fairly quickly.

"Hey Emo Monkey." Mei greeted and Macaque didn't know if he should be offended or not by that.

"Dragon girl. Decided to enjoy my company?" Macaque asked quirking an eyebrow.

"I'm bored and sense you aren't sleeping the day away anymore figured you can be my practice dummy." Mei answered with a somewhat devilish smirk on his face.

"Sure you aren't biting off more then you can chew kid? Don't think I'll go easy on you like Wukong or MK would." Macaque gave a warning even as Mei just gave a small shrug.

"Show me then." Mei spoke with confidence.

*******************

Macaque had to hand it to the dragon girl she was pretty good if not a little unpracticed. She wasn't pulling her hits that was for sure as he blocked her sword strike with his staff. "Good power, but you lack form to put behind it." He stated not helping himself from giving her pointers he admired the girl's energy. She was clearly eager and strong both a good combo when trained correctly.

"Thanks for the tip." Mei smirked as she jumped backwards clearly running out of energy if her panting was anything to go by. They had been going at it for awhile after all. She was still a mortal after all and even Macaque would reach his limits eventually.

"Always eager to help." Macaque responded with a teasing tone even as she swung for his blind side unknowingly and he twisted to block the strike again even as she nearly managed to get past his block.

Using his tail to pull her off balance she dropped her sword and Macaque held his staff to his chest. "Looks like you loose kid. Not bad though you have potential." He finished offering her a hand up even as she panted and wiped her forehead.

"Yeah well have to be able to help MK somehow." Mei stated though her tone was light Macaque wondered if there was more to that statement.

****************

They were still waiting for the others to come back from the moon when the silence was interrupted again. "So you and Monkey King get over your break-up then?" Mei asked and Macaque nearly choked on his drink as he looked at her with widening eyes. "What break up? What are you talking about?" Macaque cursed himself for how awkward that sounded even to him.

"I mean the whole Sun and Moon thing thought it sounded like you were dating or something. MK said you had a whole sad story about it and everything." Mei continued apparently undeterred from his reaction.

"Wasn't really a break-up..." Macaque started and stopped even as Mei raised an eyebrow at him.

"Well it was something bitter don't know why you would've picked on MK with that whole drama filled Shadow Play of yours." Mei's tone switched to something more angry then and Macaque barely suppressed the wince from remembering it.

"Not one of my prouder moments. We had a bad fight is all things escalated I got bitter about it." He finished leaving out the full range of details the kid didn't need to know all of his and Wukong's drama past or present.

"Just cause we're friends now doesn't mean I won't send you packing if you hurt MK again." Mei's tone held no room for interpretation she meant every word she said.

"Don't plan on it. Shouldn't have taken it out on MK I was stupid and lumping him in with Wukong, kid clearly isn't the same as he mentor."

"Yeah, no duh. Better apologize to him too emo monkey." Mei finished as he took another drink of her own cup.

"Don't worry I will, apologies aren't easy for me." Macaque finished looking down at his cup again, he really did need to apologize to the kid. With everything going on he hadn't even given it a thought. Here he was thinking Wukong was an oblivious idiot at times, but he wasn't doing much better at the moment either.

***************

"Hey brought you back something!" WUkong stated excitedly shoving a box into his hands. "Figured you'd want a snack after all you are skin and bones." Wukong stated even as Macaque stared at the box in his hands. It did smell good he had to admit even as he opened it to find mooncakes.

"Um..thanks." Macaque answered still confused even as he couldn't help the warmth he was feeling.

"I can't eat all of these you know, I'm not a glutton like a certain someone. So maybe you better have a couple too." Macaque tried to say it as flat as possible even as he looked down as he felt his face get warm. Not noticing Wukong's own face heat up at the idea of sharing something with Macaque.

"Sure sounds like a good idea." Wukong finally answered after a few seconds of awkward silence.

The two found a spot under a tree a bit away from the group as the split the box of mooncakes both taking in the night sky. Both thinking of the old days on Flower Fruit Mountain.

"You know you can come back to the mountain if you want to, after we beat the Lady Bone Demon." Wukong stated rubbing the back of his neck even as he looked at the shadow for an answer.

"Maybe..I don't know it's been a long time Wukong.." Macaque started sadly even as the other grabbed his hand.

"Yeah, but it will only be longer if you stay away. It's your home too you know, it's kinda empty without you." The king stated even as Macaque finally looked up at his face.

Macaque hadn't had a proper home for what felt like centuries now, but he couldn't voice how much he yearned to go back. He couldn't open himself up completely to that idea just yet.

"I'll think about it." Was the only answer he could give for now.

Chapter Text

The night was calm even as he laid on the top of the TEA watching the stars. They were heading to Lantern City tomorrow. This would probably be the last night camping out under the stars, and as much as he had hated it before he had found he actually enjoyed being with the group now. Even if the dragon girl kept giving him knowing smirks since Wukong had given him those mooncakes. Macaque had given up trying to get her to stop, apparently his 'intimidating glare' had lost effect with the girl. Honestly though he didn't think it would've worked even before the group bonding and friend building. The girl seemed fearless in her own right.

Honestly he liked the kid even if she was a bit annoying with how blunt she was about his and Wukong's somewhat awkward rekindling relationship. Nothing he could do about it though so he ignored it to the best of his ability. He didn't know why, but he couldn't help but feel tense. He'd thought watching the stars would help him relax, but he could still feel like something bad was going to happen. They were going to get the last ring soon and destroy the Lady Bone Demon, and maybe the fact that they were so close to the end that had him so nervous.

Maybe because things had been going too smooth lately since they had gotten the other two rings without any serious issues. The other shoe had to drop soon, and he had to be ready for it. Even as he felt for his magic with a slight sigh of relief. It was almost back to normal. Making huge portals was still taxing, but everything else was back to normal enough. The ebony furred monkey was just glad he was finally in a position where he didn't feel helpless or useless anymore. Even as he sighed giving up on trying to relax.

Guess he could just be on guard duty. While the group at first hadn't seen the need, he'd pointed out after they grabbed the second ring that it would be better to be aware and prepared if the Thrall showed up again. While he hated to make everybody tense, somebody had to be the voice of reason and tactical. They had all agreed on shifts to make it easier on everybody. He'd just relieve whoever's turn it was early so they could get some rest. He hoped it wasn't Wukong at least, because he wouldn't get out of that without him asking twenty questions about what was wrong.

It was funny how much he'd forgotten about how clingy and smothering the great sage could be when he was worried about his friends and family. Macaque hadn't minded it too much before, but he still needed some space. He couldn't just jump back into the smothering like before that easily. It had been along time he'd had that kind of care after all. Not wanting to linger on the negatives or depressing thoughts he jumped down from the roof, apparently startling the person on watch the sputtering and startled shout was a good indication.

"Sorry there Tang, you alright down there?" Macaque asked his voice teasing the human who had tipped backwards in his chair in his fright.

"Oh yeah, I'm fine.." Tang responded nervously chuckling even as he dusted off the dirt from his cloths as he stood up. "What ae you doing up still?" The human asked more out of curiosity which was easier to deal with in Macaque's opinion.

"Not, tired done plenty of sleeping lately anyway. Thought I'd give you a break since I'm awake anyway." Macaque responded with a shrug of his shoulders and tiny grin.

"That's okay. I want to do my shift." Tang stated and Macaque raised an eyebrow. There was something behind those words.

"Don't think anybody would mind if you got more rest." Macaque continued.

"No, no, I can finish my turn like everybody else." Tang continued stubbornly and Macaque flinched at the tone. He hadn't been implying the human couldn't but apparently something was going on with him.

"Alright, what's going on with you? Normally your not so snappy." Macaque stated sitting down and eyeing the human mildly concerned.

"It's just.. I can't do as much as everybody else. I can at least do this for them..." The human trailed off and Macaque gave a small sigh.

"I get it.. You don't want to let them down." Macaque started even as he glanced towards the TEA.

"Don't think they don't appreciate it, just because you're not as strong as them. Seems like everybody in this group cares about each other regardless. I couldn't fight for awhile. I was your enemy and none of you threw me out. Think you don't need to worry how 'useful' you are." The shadow finished crossing his arms as he looked over the human.

"Maybe your right... I still want to help though however I can." Tang added with a slightly less depressed tone.

"Fair enough.. hope you don't mind company though. I'm still not going to sleep either way." Macaque added with a smirk.

****************

It had actually been a relatively fun conversation after he started sharing the more embarrassing stories from his and Wukong's youth. Apparently the stories and writers didn't know everything about 'The Great Monkey King' before he started making a name for himself. Tang was eager to jot every detail down, even as Macaque shared another story about how Wukong figured out he couldn't swim and just sank like the stone monkey he was. How Macaque being the good friend he was decided to drop him straight into a mud puddle after he tried to get him soaking wet to match. When the human's shift was done he told him he'd just take the next turn since he had originally planned to do that anyway.

"Thanks." He heard the human say quietly as he went to the van to sleep.

"You're welcome.." Macaque whispered not used to getting thanks that often. He couldn't help the small smile on his face. It was nice to be helpful, and he had missed it. Being the one to help bring others up instead of dragging them down. It was nice even as he frowned at the sudden chill that creeped up his spine. Even as he heard the whispers in his hidden ears.

"Bring me them to me..." The voice made him flinch. It made him feel like she was standing right behind him causing him to turn and tense up, but as he did so the whispers faded even as he kept his defenses up. He felt a sting in his side even as he looked down at the wound glaring at it as if it was the woman herself.

"Not happening." He muttered in response not knowing if the whispering spirits could communicate his message back to her or not. Either way he would do his best to ignore it all the same.

*************

It was a couple hours later when Wukong woke up even as he walked out to take over watch not expecting Macaque to be there instead. "Hey what you doing out here? Thought you turn was after mine?" The gold-furred monkey questioned even as Macaque looked at him and shrugged.

"Decided to take my turn early." Macaque answered crossing his arms over his chest as he caught the first signs of the sunrise.

"Actually did you not wake me up?" Wukong continued noticing the sun rising even as the darker-furred monkey gave a small sigh.

"Figured you needed your beauty sleep. Doesn't seem to have helped much though." The other teased and Wukong gave a half-hearted glare.

"You're one to talk you look like you just rolled out of bed yourself. Did you even sleep at all?" He asked noticing the bags under the others eyes.

"Wasn't tired." Was the dismissive answer even as the other took a good look at the warrior's appearance he lt his fur made it look like he had been tossing and turning before he had gotten up. and he had no idea how many hours the other had been awake to begin with.

"Sure you weren't." Wukong muttered quietly even as he noticed the twitch of the other's ears knowing he had heard him, but didn't say anything.

"Come here, you look like something the cat dragged home." Wukong stated pulling Macaque down to the ground and out of his chair without warning. Even as he pushed the other into a sitting position as he sat behind him.

"Wukong, what are you doing?" Macaque asked eying the other curiously even as Wukong gave a small smile.

"Grooming your fur. Looks like you need it.." Even as the sage's voice trailed off. Macaque froze. How long had it been now? Centuries probably since he'd had a proper grooming. While sure he washed his fur he knew it was probably tangled and matted in spots. Brushing the thick fur properly was nearly impossible. There was a reason they used to have grooming circles together. Even as he felt warm paws in his fur, and he would blame it on being tired how eagerly he leaned into the touch.

****************

Wukong focused on his work gently working out the tangles of fur with a mix of fondness and sadness. The dark fur was knotted and tangled up in so many places, Macaque clearly had nobody grooming him for a long time. While his fur wasn't dirty clearing he'd been cleaning it as best he could it had been neglected from a basic care that both monkey's needed. While he had his troop help him with his. His moon hadn't had that. Even as he noticed the other's breath slow into a steady and slower pattern feeling more weight leaning against him.

"Mac?" He asked before smiling at the other's closed eyes. He knew he'd been tired as much as he had been trying to deny it even as he shifted their positions so that the other monkey was laying with his head on his lap. Getting a couple more spots of fur, before stopping. Content to watch over the other.

******************

"AWWW! That's so cute!" Was the first thing Macaque heard even as a flash of light had him bolting upright and off Wukong's lap even as he turned a bright shade of red as he noticed Mei with her phone clearly having snapped a picture. How had he allowed himself to fall asleep like that!? Even as he turned and noticed the blush on Wukong's face too, who had clearly been caught by surprise as well.

"Delete that!" Macaque demanded even as Mei merely kept laughing.

"No way! I'm keeping this! It's adorable!" She stated and Macaque felt like sinking into his shadows. Even as Wukong was no help seemingly wanting to shrink himself in his own embarrassment.

"So uh.. we should get going.." Wukong stammered out quickly even as Macaque mentally agreed anything to get rid of that amused look on the dragon girl's face.

**********************

Macaque had never been a fan of big cities. While sure he could muffle his hearing enough that it wasn't painful it was still irritating. The busy Lantern City certainly wasn't fun to him at the moment, nevermind being squished on the monorail they were on. If one more human shoved into him he was going to drop them through one of his portals. He couldn't care less if it took unnecessary energy or not. As soon as they stopped he couldn't get out of the crowded thing fast enough. The group had split up to look for the last ring. Even if they were all still in a good enough distance to not completely lose track of each other.

Though he figured the giant lantern in the middle of the city had something to do with the ring. Based on the fact that there was a whole festival going on for it. He'd be making fun of Wukong later for his terrible hiding abilities. Even as he rejoined the group in time to hear them talking about a talent show. Backstage was just as loud as the rest of the city and he wasn't looking forward to even attempting to join in on it either.

He couldn't contain his laughter even as Wukong explained his stage fright to MK. Even as he walked over to the other still smirking. "Still afraid to be on a stage then? Your majesty?" Macaque couldn't help but tease him.

"Shut..up. what are you going to play then. Or are you going to just sneak around the whole time." Wukong mumbled even as Macaque didn't hear any bite to the words this time.

"Well, you know probably not going out there. I would like to not go deaf." Macaque responded.

"Oh? The muffling spells are still working right?" Wukong asked his own horror temporarily distracted.

"Yeah it's fine, just annoying." He responded even as he heard MK talking to Tang about being the band manager and oh that was definitely not helping the human's feeling about his place in the group. Macaque turned even as he saw MK approaching him and dropped into his shadows before he could come up with a role for him.

"Lucky.." He heard Wukong mumbled even as MK was confused about where he went. He couldn't help but find the kid amusing even if he didn't know how one of his friend's was currently going through a crises. It wasn't like Tang had told any of them he was sure of that at least.

**************

Popping up behind the human even as he had a frown on his face. "I can't believe they benched me..." Tang said sadly even as Macaque gave him a pat on the shoulder.

"Kid probably just thought you were the managing type cause of the glasses." Macaque joked trying to lighten the guy's mood though apparently it wasn't working all that well this time around.

"Don't know why we aren't just taking the ring. It's right there!" Tang raised his voice as he gestured towards the lantern.

"Well then. Let's go get it." Macaque smirked even as he dropped the two of them through a portal. Before appearing in the lantern with a grin on his face even as Tang stumbled a bit.

"Woah! That was geez." As the human looked at him in confusion and disorientation.

"Sorry, forgot how you guys aren't used to shadow teleportation." Macaque stated looking up at the ring with a smile.

"Alright your turn." The monkey demon stated pointing up at the ring. Even as Tang looked up at it with a grin.

"Thanks!" He said in gratitude even as he ran towards the ring.

Maybe he had been overly paranoid before, this ring was turning out to be as easy to get as the other's had. Even as the thought finished he felt the chill rush up his spine, and this time he knew it wasn't in his head as his breath formed in front of his face.

"Tang! Get that ring faster." Macaque stated even as he got into a defensive stance glancing around waiting for the enemy to appear.

"Well...well. One of the mortals and my Lady's runaway Champion." The thrall's voice called even as he appeared through a blue portal of his own.

"I do believe this is my lucky day." The ice demon continue with the ever present smile on his face.

"I'm not her anything. Now why don't you be a good dog and go back home." Macaque growled out even as he readied himself for an attack. Even as the Thrall charged his blind side, but he had years of training to adjust for it. He dodged the punch to both his injured side and managed to swipe his tail to take the Thrall momentarily off balance. Even if it wasn't enough time to truly use it to his advantage. It was fine as long as he was distracted with the shadow demon Tang could grab the ring and he'd get them both out of here.

Speaking of the human he seemed to be having a little trouble climbing up to grab the ring, even as Macaque chanced a glance at the other, which proved to be a mistake as the Thrall shifted his attention to match where the warrior had looked just as Tang grabbed the ring. Rushing forward. but not fast enough as Tang shouted in fright as the Thrall aimed to punch him in the face. The glowing bubble that surrounded the human took all three of them by shock.

Macaque was just relieved the other hadn't gotten hurt even if not rattled and frightened. "Tang get moving!" Macaque called even as the other was apparently having trouble controlling whatever power he'd unlocked as he was floating.

Macaque was vaguely aware of something tight wrapping around his right ankle, but even as he felt the ice dig into his ankle he ignored it. He had no choice then, even as he formed a portal under the human. "Brace for a hard landing!" He managed to shout even as whatever shield that Tang was using dropped as he fell into the portal Macaque had made under him.

The thrall glared at the floor even as he looked at the monkey with a creepy grin. Even as Macaque felt another chain wrap around his other leg before two grabbed his wrists.

"Somebody has been a very bad boy." The ice demon said grinning even as the condescending words had Macaque growling even if he couldn't move.

"So disappointing.." The female voice had Macaque tense up even as he felt her presence behind him even as he felt a hand in his fur shoving his head down.

"I was going to give you another chance to repay your debt, but clearly what you desire is more pain." The bone demon threatened even as he felt the shooting pain in his side as it felt like the wound was getting ripped open again.

"Fetch me the Samadhi Fire." She commanded her servant even as Macaque closed his eyes trying to block out the pain. He felt cold and sinking into another portal before losing awareness. His last thought was that at least the group had a chance to win now. 'Hope your plan works Wukong'

***************

Tang couldn't help but scream as he fell expecting to crash into the ground even as he kept the last ring in a death grip in his hands. He felt so relieved that he was caught instead of harshly landing into the ground.

"Good job bench-warmer." Pigsy said with a fond smile, and he would've been happy at that look normally now wasn't the time to dwell on it.

"Guys that major guy is here. He's after the rings!" Tang rushed out quickly even as the group ran towards the monorail.

"Hey! Where's Macaque!?" Wukong asked frantically even as he looked for the other monkey in the crowd.

"I thought he was going to be behind me." Tang stated even as the ice started forming around the city.

"She got him..." Wukong said as he turned back towards the city a look of anger and worry on his face. He'd get him back and make her pay!

Chapter Text

Macaque knew he was doomed from the moment he got caught again, even if it didn’t stop him from feeling the jolt of fear as he felt the Lady Bone Demon’s magic before everything went dark. It wasn’t a feeling he enjoyed being transported somewhere unless it was by his own powers. The cold of her magic seeped into his skin even in the few seconds it took. He was expecting a harsh fall, but he wasn’t expecting the sudden pull around his neck. He thanked his instincts to turn his head with how hard he was pulled down; he probably would’ve broken his nose otherwise. It wasn’t exactly pleasant for the side of his face that did hit the ground. He could already feel it swelling up a bit. Though he had a sinking feeling that was going to be the least of his worries, considering he could feel the cold air swirling around him as he felt chains form around his wrists and ankles pinning him down, to what he assumed was the Bone Mech.

“Such a disappointment.” He heard the cold voice even as he tried to move his head up if only to at least be able to look his death in the eyes, but the icy chains prevented even that small bit of movement.

“Got to say, I don’t really care about your opinion.” He growled, forming fists even if he couldn’t do anything else.

“Perhaps you don’t, but you will regret trying to run away from your destiny. Perhaps it was inevitable that a shadow would long to return to it’s light.” She sounded like she was scolding him like a child and he hated it. If he could move he’d make her regret it. Never mind the fact that the crack about Wukong and him made him flinch slightly. They had been attempting to at least make small steps forward, but his death still was something he had actively avoided bringing up during the mission after they shared some apologies.

“Shut up..Don’t need approval from a destiny obsessed psycho.” Macaque stated before his air got cut off, apparently that statement was enough to irritate her.

“Be that as it may, my destiny will come to fruition with or without your help. You could’ve been my champion, but it appears you wish to return to the Diyu instead. I will grant your wish, but it will not be a fast return.”

Well that was concerning, but it wasn’t like he couldn’t handle a little pain. Maybe if he held out long enough Wukong and the kid would show up and he would manage to avoid a second death. He didn’t know if he could fully trust Wukong to show up though, or at least if he would show up fast enough. Macaque wanted to trust him he did, but he was thinking of all the times he hadn’t shown up when he had promised too.. No he couldn’t think like that not now…

‘Please just show up this time.’

****************************

It had gone so wrong. It was all his fault that it had. Wukong knew he should’ve told them about Mei having the fourth ring, but it was about hiding it from the Lady Bone Demon as well. At least that was what he had told himself. Maybe it was also admitting to his mistake from centuries ago, and the fact his actions then had caused this mess with MK’s best friend too had the feelings of guilt sky-rocket even higher. He couldn’t let any of them get hurt because of him so as much as he didn’t want to leave MK again at least this time it was to keep him from getting hurt.

As he summoned his nimbus he hated to ignore MK’s calls for him to come back, but he would be okay if only could keep him out of this fight. There was another part of him that knew he didn’t have time to wait anymore either. He still didn’t know what was happening to Macaque either. He had to believe he was still alive at the very least. He just had to grab his armor and get back to the city easy enough. Even as his monkey’s chirped in curious and concerned voices wondering what was going on even if he didn’t have time to answer all their questions at the moment.

It wasn’t a good plan, it wasn’t even a plan at this point. It was a straight up charge against the Lady Bone Demon, but his attempt at a plan had been useless so at least she hopefully wouldn’t see him coming. So it was down to charging the Lady Bone Demon, but first he had to rescue Macaque too. Regardless of how this fight ended he wasn’t leaving him with her again.

********************

“It seems my destiny is approaching fast.” The Lady Bone Demon said with a pleased tone even as her thrall arrived though he appeared slightly singed, no doubt from the Samahdi Fire that now resided in the dragon girl.

“Would you like me to retrieve the girl, my lady?” The thrall asked with a bow.

“No, there is no need to hasen destiny, everything is aligning perfectly.” She continued even as she looked over at her thrall before turning at looking at her prisoner who was still weakly moving. Just barely so. Perhaps she could make use of the simian after all as she loosened her icy chains slightly. Though the weakened monkey didn’t react to it. He could be useful after all if what her thrall had reported was correct Sun Wukong was planning on coming to her. It wouldn't do to let the king’s shadow die yet either.

********************
Macaque barely was holding on to the waking world; everything felt heavy; his limbs wouldn’t move, not that he could move much with the chains digging into him anyway. She was draining his life force out of him. He could feel it and it was agonizingly slow. He thought he felt a couple of stabs to his shoulders at one point, but his body was numb enough he barely felt it. Apparently her Thrall had been disappointed to only receive a few grunts of pain in response. Macaque was glad he was at least unable to give the bastard the satisfaction. He could hear the Lady Bone Demon talking but only get bits and pieces.

Something about Mei and the Samadhi Fire, and he frowned, wondering what had gone wrong with Wukong’s plan!? Surely Mei having it hadn’t been the plan right? He couldn’t help but wonder if the other monkey had been winging it more then he let on. It would be on par for his poor planning skills in the old days. ‘Wukong you idiot..’ He thought tiredly as he felt his eyes close slightly but then a slight change as his wrists felt slightly less stiff. He could still feel the chains, but they were looser. What was she doing? She clearly wasn’t letting him go, so what was the plan here?

He sensed the chain in the air and the familiar hum of golden magic that he recognized instantly Wukong was coming. The sense of relief rushed through him unbidden even if it probably wasn’t wise and he couldn’t sense the kid or any of his friends, which meant the Monkey King was coming alone. Well he wasn’t surprised Wukong was acting rashly, but it had the tendency to work out most of the time in the past, so hopefully it would this time as well.

****************

Wukong was motivated even as he charged at the Bone Mech. He was looking for Macaque’s magic energy at the same time. The goal was to get him out of wherever he was and then beat the shit out of the Lady Bone Demon was his warrior wasn’t in danger, and then he could go all out against her and not worry about him getting caught in the crossfire. He did lock onto the shadow monkey’s energy, but it was really weak. Weaker then he had ever sensed before, except when he had been dying centuries ago. It wasn’t fading fast which meant he wasn’t actively dying, but it was concerning. What had she been doing to him! He had to make her pay for it. He’d been wanting to destroy her from the moment she had tried to hurt MK and now she had hurt Macaque too. She was asking for him to destroy her at this point and if that's what she wanted she was going to get it.

He crashed onto the mech having no choice but to face her head on. Macaque’s energy was too close to hers for him to be far enough away for him to get him out first. Even as he glared at the Lady Bone Demon and her Thrall both of which had smug looks on their faces as if this was a part of their plans. He wouldn’t be happier than to wipe those looks off their faces.

“Sun Wukong, I see your plan to use the Samahdi Fire to destroy me has failed. Surely you don’t believe you have the power to defeat me all alone.” The Lady Bone Demon smiled taunting him.

Wukong growled in response. “I didn’t need it to defeat you last time. Figured I could manage without it.”

“Oh I’m more powerful than last time we fought. Although I do wonder if you have another reason for coming so frantically and unprepared.”

The sound of a weak sounding shout had Wukong’s eyes widening as he noticed the thrall was gone and he turned to follow the sound. He froze as his eyes caught sight of Macaque who was being held up by the back of his neck by the ice demon.

“Missing something your Majesty?” It asked with a grin.

“I believe you’ll be wanting your shadow back yes.” The Lady Bone Demon stated with a grin even as Wukong glared at her.

“Let him go now!” He threatened tightening his fists ready to pounce as soon as Macaque was out of danger.

“Now why would we do that? He is such an amusing little prisoner.” The thrall stated even as his grip turned harsher causing Macaque to let out a choked gasp.

“Wu…kong..” Macaque mumbled. “Do..” He couldn’t finish whatever he was about to say as his air was cut off.

“How much are you willing to do for your shadow Sun Wukong, would you bring us the girl in exchange perhaps?” She asked and Wukong knew he couldn’t and wouldn’t do that.

Macaque shook his head. Even though he didn't want Wukong to do that for him, he knew he wasn’t worth that.

“A shame. Really thought we could reach an understanding.” She tsked gesturing to her thrall but even as he gestured to her servant he dropped through the ground into a shadow as he dropped his grip from Macaque’s neck.

Wukong didn’t wait to charge forward even as threw a punch at the Lady Bone Demon which she barely managed to dodge. That was fine even as he ran and grabbed Macaque before either the Lady Bone Demon tried to grab him okay or her thrall returned from wherever Macaque had sent him. Probably not far with what little energy the other had.

“Macaque! You okay?” Wukong asked, holding him up as the other gave him a small smirk.

“Just peachy. Don’t think I’m going to be able to do that again for a while.” Macaque said weakly leaning his weight into Wukong barely holding himself up.

“Let’s get you back to the others then.” Wukong stated even as he felt a chill creep up his back.

“Foolish simians.” The Lady Bone Demon grinned as she finished her spell while the two were distracted.

Macaque’s eyes widened as he looked at Wukong and he used the weight he was leaning into Wukong with to push him over even as the two saw a flash of blue and then nothing for a few seconds as the sound of the Lady Bone Demon rushed through the pairs ears.