#sanzang x wukong

[reginleif-valkyrie]

Watching the Journey to the West 2010 adaptation and Wukong begs Sanzang to free him and that’ll he’ll protect him ect etc. There is some doubt that Wukong is lying, but Sanzang chooses to believe him.

I’m sitting there thinking ‘is that something the shows like to add or is that actually in the book?’

So I got get my copy of the first book and look it up. The answer is mostly yes. Wukong does his whole speech and Sanzang is delight to meet him. The hunter/woodsman asks if Wukong is lying and Wukong denies it. Sanzang frees Wukong.

Not once does Sanzang think Wukong is lying. He instantly believes him despite the fact he is trapped under a mountain for messing with the Buddha.

This is the first example of Sanzang’s blind faith that people are good, even demons, that they’re not going to lie to him to get what they want.

It is his blind faith that sets Wukong free and it is that same blind faith the puts him at odds with Wukong over and over again .

Wukong is agitated by that blind faith, the same blind faith that saved him in the first place.

Sanzang could have said ‘no, you’re a demon. You must be lying,’ and leave most definitely ending with his death somewhere.

But no, he believes Wukong and Wukong is truthful.

Think about it. This crazy monkey demon that turns out to be OP as hell that was trapped under a mountain for 500 years by the Buddha himself is telling you the truth. Blind faith scored you this kickass monkey. It’s just reinforces your blind faith is right.

Now I can hear you saying ‘he never believes Wukong again’ and you are absolutely right.

Here’s the thing, people don’t react well when someone tells them something they believe in is ‘wrong’.

Wukong repeatedly says that ‘this person is lying. Let’s not help them.’ (There’s usually more explanation than that.) Sanzang in turn thinks Wukong is lying because he’s contracting his belief, a belief that set Wukong free and though Wukong is ‘bad’ he is keeping his word by protecting Sanzang long the journey still reinforcing the Sanzang is right.

There are people who believe so strongly in their belief that not matter how much evidence you put in front of them won’t change their minds.

Sanzang was right once. Wukong was telling the truth when he said ‘free me and I’ll protect you.’ It wasn’t in a way Sanzang approved of, but he wasn’t lying.

Wukong is a walking example that Sanzang’s blind faith was right and can be right again. (I don’t think it was, however that’s not the point)

I think I lost where I was going with this.

I will reiterate that Wukong struggles with Sanzang’s blind faith but it’s that blind faith that saved him in the first place which is ironic as hell. That’s probably the whole point.

I would also like to say that I am not justifying or defending anyone’s actions. Everyone needs to go to therapy.

[blushspatula]

I was browsing through my gallery and came across this meme. I couldn't resist and had to do it.

Poor Trip, he's uncomfortable being present in his brothers' drama. 😩🖐️🖐️

[margueritedaisies]

The boys are baaack~🤭 They're still beautiful as the last time I drew them🥹💓

Screencap redraw , love me some Tripitaka with attitude

[gamegirlx]

so i had an idea.

OKAY.

STORY WISE THIS HONESTLY DOESNT EVEN MAKE SENSE

generaly speaking i thoight the dyanmics would fit I JUST HAD THE IMPULSE TO DO SO BCUS oh my gosh s4 brainrot???

[mixedupmojo]

Crack though but here goes

Tripitaka and reader get kidnapped by a some type of cat demon lion, tiger, leopard doesn’t matter. And on one hand reader knows that this is a demon that is most defiantly going to kill and eat them or potentially do something worse.

But on the other hand BIG KITTY.

Tripitaka is under the impression that they are absolutely scared out of their mind but in reality they are trying to suppress every cat lovers instinct with them and keep themselves from gushing over this demon and baby talking them while booping their nose and smooshing their cheeks.

It get even worse when reader see that they have got toe beans.

Eventually they crack and during the demons big monolog they stick their finder in his mouth. Naturally the demon gives them the what the hell look but before they can gather themselves reader starts cooing at them and petting their fur. Just when the demons about to lose it they hit that one spot under their chin that makes them turn to mush. So reader has a lapful of purring demon all the while tripitaka is watching on in abject horror.

Cue wukong and the gang breaking in to recuse tripitaka and reader only to find the aforementioned scene before them and wukong getting immediately jealous.

Later after the demon has been defeated and tripitaka has given reader a long lecture on judgment and basic survival instincts. Wukong grabs reader and all but demands a cuddle session. Keeping them on his lap while they give him chin scratches all the while teasing him about being jealous. ( I'm imagining this happening before they've officially gotten together as it just makes the above scenario even better, confused reader not understanding why wukong is acting this way but is happy to placate him all the same)

[mehiwilldoitlater]

Being isekai in JTTW would mean:

1) Always having some stupid and pointless conversation with Zhu Bajie about whatever things come to your mind and sometimes dragging Wukong in it.

2) Being always treated like a child by Sha Wujing, who is always scared for your own safety, and he's always holding you on his shoulder.

3) being treated like another of his students by Tang Sanzang, even of you allways, sometimes just zoned out and sometimes questioning his own methods. 

4) always helping out or listening to Sun Wukong rumbles, ending up having a crush on him but trying to suppress it because you fear that doing so you'll change the story.

[arta-ow-o]

Tang is done with all shit

Tang: *can't have girlfriend 'cause he is Monk* (in some films falling in love with someone)

Reader and Wukong:

Tang: 😶 u serious

[dumbbitch2-0]

I have something to admit… a deep horrible secret….

Inkypages shipping is so funny to me like that’s Mee-Maw and Big Tiddie Goth Gf they need to kiss immediately but like in a silly way

[luxthestrange]

LMK Incorrect quotes#84 YES IT IS!

Tang Sanzang: You need a hobby Wukong & Ao lie: We got a have a hobby! Tang Sanzang: Fawning over Y/n isn’t a hobby

[fanged-fanfics]

on my hands and KNEES for a fic involving the circlet. i feel like it could be used so EFFECTIVELY for x reader angst but i never see it (wukong x reader hurt/comfort but HES getting comforted real not fake)

🧡👑 Heavy is the Crown That Crushes the Head — Wukong x GN! Reader Drabble👑🧡

Genre: Angst, Hurt/Comfort || they/them pronouns for reader || Warning for descriptions of circlet-induced pain/implied trauma

✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆˚｡⋆୨👑୧⋆˚｡⋆✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖

Li Jing's brash and cruel actions against the King affected him more than he was letting on. He was keeping up a brave and happy face, making it seem outwardly that it hadn't been bothering him too badly. That's what he'd always done, especially since his retirement. Especially for MK's sake. The kid was already going through so much, he didn't need to be worrying about Wukong on top of that. So he kept up a steel tight mask of a casual attitude, trying his best to not let any crack show through.

You, however, weren't so easily brushed away. You knew him better than Wukong sometimes knew himself, and that fact did often make Wukong just a bit nervous around you. There was a very brief pause in all the running and fighting, one where Wukong had distanced himself from MK and Macaque. He sure as hell didn't want Macaque making any snide comments right now.

You'd found him not long after he'd hidden, gently and carefully approaching him. "Wukong?" You began, sitting a few feet from him. Wukong gave you his default disarming grin "Yeah, peach? What's up?". "Are... are you okay?" You began, getting straight to the point "And I mean.. really okay. Not just 'surviving' or 'making it'". Wukong's grin faltered, and he looked down at the ground with a frown. "I... I'll be alright, hun. This isn't the first time I've had the world's worst crown on my head" he said. Though there was possibly a small attempt of humor in there, you could sense the genuine vulnerability in his tone.

You hesitated for a second, before reaching a hand out to him. He took it, and his breath faltered at feeling your thumb pet the back of his hand. He exhaled shakily, a hand going to the circlet. "There's really nothing we can do?" You asked, and Wukong shook his head. "No, I've tried. Practically takes a Buddah to do anything to this". You frowned sympathetically, putting your head on his shoulder. You could see his brow furrow, rubbing the circlet on his head. He remembered exactly how it felt. Being treated like a feral beast, like something to be caged and confined, to effectively declaw of his instincts. The first time it happened, at least he could admittedly understand it. He was quite literally a mass murderer back then, back when he needed the guidance of the Journey to end his borderline bloodlust.

But this was far different. This was blatant control. This was Li Jing trying to keep Wukong chained, because he knew the King was itching to settle a score with the man, especially after he got to talking to Nezha about how Li Jing acted. This was an act of malice, not protection. He could feel the familiar feelings from back then swirling in a sickly coil in his chest. Was he still dangerous? He did his best to learn, the Journey was proof of that. Maybe.. maybe all the trouble he was bringing was more than just coincidence. Maybe all these enemies coming back was a sign. He was dangerous. He was still that rough and undisciplined monkey who gnashed his teeth at any who came too close. What was he thinking, bringing this to MK and the others? To you? What kind of a partner was he, to let you fall in the way with his enemies? Maybe removing himself from the team would be better. Maybe-

"Wukong!"

The King was brought out of his spiral by your voice, cutting into his thoughts and adding a jolt of alarm to the mass of doubt he was feeling. He blinked, getting his bearings back as he turned to you. Your concerned frown hit him right in his heart. "I've been calling your name for like 30 seconds- where'd you go?" You asked. Wukong rubbed the back of his neck. "Don't worry about it, bud, I-"

"Please," You cut in imploringly "I know this is hard for you. I know that bastard has you backed into a corner, I... I'd be terrified if I were you. But you're not alone, love. I'm right here. I know I can't begin to imagine all the burdens on your shoulders, but don't be afraid to ask me to help lighten the load". Wukong took in your words, biting his lip to stop it from possibly trembling. He pulled you into a tight hug, burying his face in your shoulder and wrapping his tail tight around your waist. You held him in return, rubbing up and down his back in an attempt to comfort.

Wukong pressed his face more into your warmth, clearing his throat to make sure his voice was steady before talking "It hurts" he admitted "Worse than anything I've ever felt. Gods, it's terrible. I wouldn't wish this on anyone, I can't- I can barely deal with it. I just don't want the kid to worry. He has enough happening, I- I should be strong enough for us both". As the Sage vented, you brought a hand up to his head, gently petting through the fur there. "You are strong, honey" you said to him "But being strong isn't just bottling all this up. You'll always be his hero, Wu. But you're allowed to be human, too".

That last line struck a deep cord. Wukong had lived among humans for years, finding comfort in their creativity and vibrance. He wanted to blend in with them for ages, to have the peace a human life away from the celestials and demons provided. He nuzzled into you, holding you closer "I'll... try. It's not that easy, but.. please, please stick with me. You're my own little sun, you know that?". You nodded, kissing his temple "I will, I promise. You'll be okay. We'll get that thing off of you soon. We're here for you, I've got you"

Finding comfort in your promise, Wukong calmed his breathing, holding you a little less tightly. He finally found himself relaxing, wiping his eyes as he let out a relaxing sigh. "Thank you, really" he said "We.. should probably head back now, huh?". You gave him a reassuring smile, standing and extending a hand to him. He took it, standing with you and keeping his tail wrapped tightly around you. As you two began walking back to MK, you kissed his cheek "Come to me whenever, okay? I'll never turn you away" you reminded softly. Wukong smiled, returning the gesture of affection "I promise, sunbeam"

[reginleif-valkyrie]

Journey to the West 1980s.

The princess from India who’s obviously a demon, picks Sanzang to be her husband.

When Sanzang asks Wukong what they should do, the handsome monkey king says ‘just marry her’

Poor Sanzang thought his husband loved. Though with what he does to Wukong, Sanzang deserves some teasing.

[m1nsur0]

[JTTW OC: 智平] Character Profile

Name: 阮智平 (Ruan Zhi Ping)

Age (JTTW): 1471

Height: 7’1” (215CM)

Pronouns: He/Him

Unflinching and unwavering in all ways, the Violet Dragon is not ever referred to as “pleasant” to endure, however it is preconception welcomed if it abstracts him to the follies of the living.

“Trying to turn him from his planned path is akin to throwing brittle knifes to a cliff face.” - Wujing

“The strangest man around, that’s for sure. Ya ever meet a doctor that wants you to come to him through death’s door?” - Bajie

“Abrasive, but all good pieces of sandpaper must be so.” - Sanzang

“More stoney faced than Ol’ Sun! Nothing The Great Sage can’t crack open.” - Wukong

SUMMARY: (a bit of a long one i would say)

-Born the eldest child of the Dragon [REDACTED].

-Left his home as a ward under the tutelage of Divine Knowledge at the age of 8, and began his own career in academics before reaching adulthood.

-Spends 400 years in isolation between painted realms and isolated corners of the primary realms, the only signs of his life are routinely submitted papers and documents regarding his innovations and social critiques.

-Gets unwillingly found by the Heaven’s Dog, and swears an accord to His Divinty to avoid a change in lifestyle.

-Emerges to his native lands briefly after reported Yaoguai disturbances in the Seas, and commits the minimum of social requirements to younger relatives before returning to isolation for another 200 years.

-After reaching undeniable renown of his works, he agrees to spend one year every century in mortal plains. Towards both placating his kin and making unwanted ties to other realms for research efficiency.

-Around age 800, his lack of care for social nuances lands him in hot water with the Jade Empress. Both hands are whipped on her command, to ensure consequences on his ability to write and study- the only thing of importance to him.

-Another century of isolation, however this time in his original bedchambers from his home at his parent’s residency. Not a single paper is released by the scholar, and he is as much of a ghost in his home as ever before.

-The joint efforts of Wenchang and Erlang prompt Zhiping to agree to meeting with them outside of politics, and he takes the long walk across the lands to meet them.

-On the walk, finds the first sprig of amusement in 500 years from a crash figure trapped under a mountain.

-Erlang and Wenchang pass on the Emperor’s “pardons of his actions” regarding The Court, and is ushered to Yao Wang and Guanyin to heal any internal injuries in his hand. After this comes a deal struck to expand Zhiping’s access to Heaven’s archives and scholars in apologies.

-The dragon scholar delves even further into his research, invigorated, and is not seen in person for another 300 years. Any work regarding outside beings having express magic pathways to avoid physical encounters.

-Guanyin enlists Zhiping to round off the group of pilgrims under a deal. Zhiping makes it clear that he cares not for buddhahood as the pre-established reward to other contract members, and accepts the task once his proposal is the one defining his involvement.

-Spends the years until the journey more social than normal, knowing that the environment he will have to endure

-Joins with the Tang Monk before reaching The Monkey King, is notably silent in comparison to the others in the group. Not one for small talk or “unnecessary” words.

-Ends up as the group’s healer due to his medical and surgical education, however is known to allow any other party member to suffer physical pains for a safe extra moment if they pushed his buttons recently.

-Despite being one of the group’s dragons, he never interacts with one other than Bai Long Ma- with plausible and pragmatic excuses to leave before meeting any other dragons in passing.

-About 2 years into the Journey, takes in an injured wolf pup, which then stays along for the ride from that point on after regaining it’s health. It takes a few years for Sanzang to settle with the predator.

-Zhiping is “closest” (as much as he can be) with Wujing due to their shared stable personalites, and an odd affection to Bai Long Ma that the group can’t seem to figure out as to why.

-Wukong and Zhiping have the first shift in their allyship after when Zhiping is almost entirely focused on the affects of Samadhi fire, in which the monkey feels something change in him after being on the receiving end of genuine care for the first time in centuries.

-Wukong becomes a bit of a step father to the group’s grown wolf, honing it’s protective and hunting skills. Most Definitely Not to work his stead once the journey fractured the group post-completion. He picks the dog up like he’s still a puppy.

-Zhiping breaks off from the group briefly at the Xiliang Kingdom due to his academic work, after many whines from the horse and dog. Reminding them that he is not bound to this task like the rest of them, and he knows that they’ll manage until they rejoin.

-He reunited with them later, now dealing with a cold-furred-shoulder from the monkey king.

-The golden circlet becomes his next area of research, both in neutrality of how the spell works, and how to possibly alleviate Wukong of the pain in unjust casting. The universe is against him completing that work until the scriptures are delivered- it renders the end goal void. But he keeps the project on the back burner regardless.

-Wukong and Zhiping enter a rocky exclusivity, born of Wukong’s paranoia of separation and possessive nature.

-Sanzang is confronted by Zhiping about his illogical use of the tightening spell, after an explosive argument, Sanzang says a comment out of bounds. The wolf scars the monk in retaliation, and Zhiping departs the group a second time with said canine. But not before placing soothing salves in the luggage Wujing carries.

-Seasons pass, and whilst the group can function on their own, Wukong works to convince Zhiping back with Guanyin’s additional effort, he then comes back after providing Wukong with a plan to outsmart Meifa Guo’s King.

-Zhiping remains with the group from then on, closer to the non-humans as ever before, but warning Sanzang that there’s no circlet or Guanyin to prevent him from being eaten by a dragon should he get too bold.

-The amount of wedding traps the pilgrims have encountered at this point prompts Wukong to make a veiled comment about the two of them after the run in with the Jade Rabbit.

-Tripitaka attains Buddhahood, The Journey Completes

-Wukong refuses anything beyond the removal of the circlet, Zhiping collects his agreed rewards. Their relationship stays strong as Zhiping takes Bai Long Ma and the Wolf, as the Dragon returns to a small island in view of Huaguoshan to complete his studies based on the Journey.

-The Monkey King is the only one he allows to enter the Island, and always makes comment on how not even the Divinity was allowed entrance to any of Zhiping’s domains.

-Throughout continued courtship, Wukong Learns that Zhiping has been inspired to start an academy from his enjoyment of educating the pilgrims from time to time. And the Monkey King decides he is the only one capable of funding such a project. It becomes a part of his betrothal gift to ensure it’s perfect.

-The academy is first open to only 3 monkeys from Huagoshan for a few decades, with no more than 4 at any given enrolment. Wukong declares himself a permanent student of Zhiping, and so only 3 others set foot on academy groups at most.

-Zhiping eventually expels his betrothed for his habit of never doing the assigned work, and only listening to the lectures that focus on botany or weapon masonry. Anything else is Wukong trying to distract the dragon to end work early.

-Nezha is not accepted as a student, despite his repeat attempt at entrance.

-Zhiping limits the academy to two students once he becomes King Consort, substituting it with public lectures beyond the regular medicinal ones to to anyone on Huaguoshan.

VISUAL DESIGN:

“His clothes are thin and fold neatly, they are as considerate of my weary bones as he is.” - Wujing

“Bah! Too Floaty, Too Floaty! It would do better for him to dress in a way that would not make others confuse him with a Lady” - Bajie

“Very delicate, for a Dragon.” - Sanzang

“Oh, very soft… very soft…. I would know most of all.” - Wukong

Zhiping dresses in old fashioned Deep Style clothes, light in colour and light in weight. shifting through Winter Blues, Spring Purples, Summer Pinks and Autumn Oranges.

Even on the journey, his clothes remain ideal for desk work, knowing that his skills in long-range combat and Wukong’s reliability means he has no need to change his wardrobe’s Function.

Once Wukong attaches himself to Zhiping, the outer layer of his hanfu is repurposed as a loose garment for the monkey- both as a signal of their connection and the monkey’s urge to playfully steal from his companion.

He bears no weapons on his person, only writing equipment in deep pockets and in his sleeves, his bow and arrow are stored in dimensional magic spaces that work towards efficiency in drawing a shot. This allows him to make the group look less intimidating due to how feeble he presents himself- before Wukong shatters the illusion.

Standing at 7’1”, he is only a few inches shy of Wujing and “Two Bajies Tall” (as the group says), his dragonic tail also stretches two meters from back to tip. However with how heavily it is armoured with thick scales it is seen as a blunt weapon more than a 5th appendage.

Both Horns and Tails are hidden in all but few specific scenarios. Either when he is alone in isolation or around a group he knows won’t press into his ancestry or kin’s identity. They are slightly more blue-toned than his hair and eyes, and glimmer like mother of pearl under the light. To Wukong’s disappointment, they are not shown within his reach, due to his habits of pulling and pinching.

STATS:

Physical Traits:

A classic glass-canon in fights, beyond his title as the “Feeble Scholar” Zhiping boasts highly specialised utility of his mind and body. His nature as a dragon offsets this fragility through lifestyle, and allows him a comfortable zone of sustainability before taking advantage of his innate speed to avoid conflicts that take away from time he could put towards research.

Too young to properly learn the sword and spear before leaving home to Wenchang’s abode, any combat skills in his youth were cultivated through observation of Heaven’s soldiers- and later a trade off with Erlang. This stuck to gaining skills in archery and knife throwing, preferring to stick to long range.

[Endurance: 2]

-Due to his lifestyle being limited to his desk and labs, the dragon does not refine his form beyond what is necessary to complete tasks related to his research. His skin is soft and unweathered from any hard labour, and if he grasps and scrolls to fast he is likely to gain a paper cut.

[Strength: 6]

-Unwillingly to spend time away from studies, and heavy lifting is done via magic manipulation- never by hand. It doesn’t help that said magic can reduce the tension needed to fire arrows. Slightly below average for a dragon, but left to dwindle without upkeep.

[Magic: 10]

-Due to both the wide field of Magic studies, and interwoven nature of it with earthly science, Zhiping quickly gained great abilities in it under Wenchang in Heaven whilst still a child. Gaining skills in conventional and sealed branches of magic due to sneaking into Xuanwu’s archives when his classes had finished for the day.

[Speed: 9]

-Born of the Seas, His body is built to manoeuvre water that offers far more resistance than air, and such finds anything above the water’s edge to offer no push back. His thin stature is aerodynamic and sleek, however the lack of muscles means he can only sprint in ways similar to a cheetah before he needs to halt.

[Constitution: 6]

-His body is naturally suited to ward off illness and fatigue, however his habits of using himself as a test subject for various pellets and spells has worn down various aspects of his body. His stomach can no longer handle eating more than once a week, and his hands still feel phantom pains. Walking the wolf does help build up stamina again, though.

Social Traits:

Blunt and uncaring for comfort in his words, the Violet Dragon has often found himself at the end of outcries from his harsh comments. It takes years for the best natured people to understand his sheer truthfulness and neutral intent. It has worked equally in his favour and against regarding goals. But he would rather lose his senses before he gains baseless placation in his encounters.

The path of erudition is where every step of his treads, no action or words are made if they do not move him in the right direction.

[Athleticism: 4]

-Briefly trained in proper etiquette by his kin and given a structured life until his departure to isolation, Zhiping has experience in courtly dance and basic performance arts. More graceful than strictly powerful, he can perform feats of entertainment and water-based traversal. However lacks the ability to measure up to other dragons in regards to endurance travel or weight lifting.

[Charisma: 0]

-Not inviting both subconsciously and by curated personality, Zhiping bolsters no way to prompt endearment and prefers using his bristly nature to nip any outside fondness in the bud. Any bonds forged with him are this tempered through years of putting up with harsh environment and even harsher comments. He has only every failed in inheriting courtly manners.

[Willpower: 5]

-Swings like a metronome between hyper focus and callous disregard for any topic depending on how it aligns with his scholarly pursuits. Topics can be hotly pursued and suddenly dropped when reevaluated to not hold any further academic value. It means that any he decides to pursue is hunted relentlessly, in a very specific scope of interest.

[Intelligence: 18/10]

-Undeniably the foundation of his being and soul, his mind overpowers every other part of him. Able to grasp any unfamiliar field of study to the highest degree within one day cycle. However with how long he has lived there are few topics left for him to discover anew. His intelligence does not stop at traditional means, with excellent abilities to decide his emotional and psychological state- and more importantly others. Possess such mastery over his emotions that many think he possesses none.

[Self-control: 6]

-He can easily coordinate his desires to what is pragmatically ideal to the moment, shutting off what is unnecessary or irrelevant to the task at hand. But also possesses no desire to temper the intensity of his studies towards compile knowledge. Dragons do have a nature to hoard.

[Creativity: 7]

-Study of the world is to study the arts and mind. There are infinite topics of interest regarding the creative arts, and creativeness in methods of conduct are often the only way to achieve results in contexts of tight parameters. When he is rarely not researching, Zhiping can be found illustrating his notes or tuning his Ruan.

Black Myth: Zhiping

Following the Mortal Death of Wukong, Zhiping’s efforts have continued on focusing on sustaining the lives of Huaguoshan’s inhabitants, ushering them to his academy under intense protective magic wards to avoid any more of Heaven’s Soldiers reaching them.

Some monkeys of Wukong’s mountain follow immediately, some stay with the healers he has instructed until this moment. Some flee the mountain. Zhiping states that the Mountain itself will attract the ire of Heaven and that the Academy can provide solace, that it would be forever open to any of Wukong’s denizens.

Quest 1: Medicinal Brews

Required: [Rescue Shen Monkey] [Gain access to Shen Monkey’s services] [Defeat the Whiteclad Noble] [Defeat Elder Jinchi] [Defeat Rat Royals] [Obtain: Loong Scales]

Speak to Shen Monkey, if [Loong Scales] are in possession, completing all new dialogue alluding to a healer who solved his chronic wounds will end in receiving [Ziluolan Pellets]

(Ziluolan Pellets: If added to a flask originating from a monkey, will create immunity to DOT effects- but will not remove the build up of Four Banes.)

Quest 2: Western Waters

Required: [Defeat Kang Jin-Star] [Defeat Cyan Loong WHILST having Ziluolan Pellets in brew effect] [Defeat Cyan Loong wearing Loong armour OR wielding a Loong Staff][Possess at least 4 Loong Pearls] [Talk With Bajie near Kang Jin Loong body]

After Bajie finishes his monologue, having all mentioned pre-requisites achieved will provide additional dialogue on Wukong and his involvement with Dragons. Allow for this extra dialogue to finish to have Bajie pass on the [Broken Arrow Tip Curio]

(Broken Arrow Tip: Takes up two equip slots. Allows [Pierce] to be applied to all damage. [Pierce] will reduce enemies DEF by 25% when headshots are landed. Can stack with multiple of the same Curio.)

Following Western Waters being completed, speaking to Chen Loong will start a cutscene related to Zhiping and the barrier towards his Academy grounds. The Destined One having a birthright allowing access to this island will make Chen Loong as to go there to ask the Dragon of that domain for a list of seeds. Receive [Seeds and Saplings List]

[This opens up the Sprawling Roots Quest]

Following Western Waters being completed, speaking to Xu Dog will open dialogue on the academic papers released on celestial pellets he has near his furnace. Complete this dialogue to be asked to take his noted questions to the paper’s Author. Receive [After-Lecture Questions]

[This opens up the Loong Road to Perfection Quest]

Quest 4: Familiar Seas

Required: [Defeat All Four Loong Bosses] [Defeat Yellow Loong with Ziluolan Pellets in Brew] [Defeat Yellow Loong with Broken Arrow Tip Curio Equipped] [Apply Pierce in Thrust Stance at least once during fight with Yellow Loong]

If the boss fight is completed with all above tasks, Yellow Loong will relinquish the rune needed to open a pathway through the Academy Ward.

Quest 5: Painted Realms, Painted Fogs.

Required: [Possess the reward rune from Yellow Loong] [Unlock Somersault Cloud]

After unlocking the ability to fly around Huagoshan, finding Bajie staring westward on a platform in the open-map will start a cutscene of him complaining about an odd fog cloud beyond the waters. He will end the cutscene muttering about Wukong’s Dragon. Flying towards the Fog will prompt a cutscene where the unlocking rune will dispel the illusioned cloud, and open up the Secret Area: Yinshi Academy.

Progress through the path to Yinshi until you encounter a Dragon Wrapped Gate.

Possessing the [Loong Scales] and at least 4 Loong Pearls will awaken the Dragon from slumber, and initiate the boss fight with [White Dragon, Son of Ao Run]

Fighting the White Dragon will end with a cutscene at 25% health, where a wolf will unavoidably interrupt any attack the Destined One is making, and will take the equipped weapon with it as it runs down the path towards the academy.

Drinking from the Gourd whilst the [Ziluolan Pellets] are in brew will end the boss fight early, and the player will retain their equipped weapon. A wolf will grab the attention of the player and guide them down towards the academy.

Both Boss endings will reward the player with [4x Celestial Ribbon]

Once the Destined one reaches Yinshi’s front door, A cutscene will start showing The Violet Dragon healing an elderly monkey.

There are no other fights in this map, and the Destined one cannot draw any weapon or cast spells once this point has been reached.

Quest 6: Violet Scales, Violent Tales.

Required: Complete [Painted Realms, Painted Fog] [Have Broken Arrow Tip Equipped]

The Violet Dragon will not speak, nor pay the Destined One any attention unless they walk directly into his line of sight after he moves to his open desk.

The Dragon will reach for the broken arrow tip, [This will remove it from the player’s inventory permanently] and will traverse the room to hand the Destined one the [Pristine Arrow Head Curio]

Leave the area via fast travel or Somersault Cloud to reset Yinshi Academy, then return to The Violet Dragon. This will prompt dialogue, asking if the Destined One knows the NPC’s name.

Exhaust this Dialogue to receive [Amethyst Abacus Necklace]

Zhiping will provide access to the reward chests deeper in Yinshi, and if given excess materials, will upgrade medicines beyond Xu Dog’s formulas.

(Pristine Arrow Head: Takes up two equip slots. Allows for the [Shatter] effect to be applied to enemies. [Shatter] will apply 2% DEF reduction with each hit onto the enemy, stacking up to 20 times as long as the wearer is not hit. Stacks reset upon taking damage.)

(Amethyst Abacus: Takes up one equip slot. Wearing this curio will allow the user to summon Langgou, highly affective against some bosses.)

After this Quest, Zhiping will move on schedule around the map.

Sprawling Roots: Talk to Zhiping whilst he is in the Gardens, and with [Seeds and Saplings List] in inventory will end with gaining the [Seed Pouch] to give to Chen Loong.

Loong Road to Perfection: Talking to Zhiping whilst he is in the Lecture Halls, and with [After-Lecture Questions] in inventory will end with gaining the [Refined Fomula] to give to Xu Dog.

After all mentioned Quests are completed, The Destined One can now:

-In Yinshi Academy, use the equipped weapon to throw near Langgou, Zhiping’s Wolf, to play fetch. (If the Jingu Bang is equipped, you will have to play a game of tug with Langgou.)

Collect rare plants from the Academy Gardens, however taking more than 5 per visit will result in Zhiping removing the Destined One from the secret area for the day.

Listen to Zhiping’s tales of the Journey in the Archives.

Pat the White Dragon, Son of Ao Run as you pass through the Gate.

Using the [Amethyst Abacus] in Painted Mount Mei will take Xiaotian Quan’s aggro from the Destined One during Region’s Boss fight.

[novelcain]

Heyo, I have a bit of a prompt for ya. So I’ve seen the “Demon that wants to abduct and forcibly marry Reader,” post(s) and raise a “The local regent/king finds Reader attractive (in a way that he views her almost like a novelty than as a whole person) and offers her a position as a concubine/ ‘palace lady.’” This is a different kind of scenario because straight up murdering the king of the area is not exactly the option that’d let the journey continue smoothly and refusal could also be construed as an offense to the king, but Reader does not want to and needs to continue with them on the journey. All of the other disciples know this, and maybe can tell she’s uncomfortable (even if it’s before Wukong has really fallen for Reader, she is still someone he would consider to be his friend at the very least). How are they going to get out of this one? (Slightly inspired by the time Tripitaka was propositioned in the Kingdom of Women by the Empress.)

Ps: sorry if this is dumb, regardless, I hope you have a good day - 🌺 anon

King: So what do you say, girl? Will you become my concubine? I see no possible reason for you to say no! I can give you all you could ever ask for in exchange for serving my every whim! That seems like a wonderful deal for a woman like you that clearly comes from nothing.

Reader:

Wukong:

Sandy:

Pigsy:

Ao Lie:

Reader: Wha-What?

Tripitaka: N-Now wait just a minute, your Majesty. You c-can't simply expect her to drop everything and stay here-

King: Well of course I can! I am the king of these lands! In fact! I insist upon it! Woman, you shall stay here and serve your new king immediately as soon as you are cleaned.

Reader: *feeling a panic attack approaching as the room starts to spin*

Wukong: *holding back the urge to commit violent murder*

Sandy: *rethinking this whole "pacifism" thing*

Pigsy: *looking disgusted at the king*

Ao Lie: *wondering if anyone would notice if he turned back into a dragon and ate the king*

Tripitaka: *trying so hard to think of a peaceful solution while also trying not to cry over how much the king is objectifying Reader* Y-You can't just h-have her! She's a necessary part of our pilgrimage!

King: By the Heavens! She's just one woman how valuable could she be!? After all, she is just your maidservant is she not!?

Tripitaka: *remembering that is the disguise they came up with for her* Yes, b-but! Why must you have her, great King!?

King: Because I have never seen a woman like her before! She is a beautiful foreign flower that I simply must have for myself! Here! I shall be merciful and send you off with another servant!

King: *gestures to his guards to find a servant*

Wukong: *reaches toward his ear for his staff*

Sandy: *reaches for his spade*

Pigsy: *reaches for his rake*

Ao Lie: *gets ready to turn into a dragon*

Tripitaka: *frozen in shock*

Reader: *sees the carnage about to begin*

Reader: I HAVE A DISEASE!

Everyone: *stops and turns to face her* HUH?!

Reader: I... have a disease.

King: *narrows eyes in suspension* And what is the name of this disease?

Reader: *sweats nervously as all knowledge of every disease she knows of decides to take a vacation from her brain at the one moment she needs it most*

Reader: In... junct... co... itis.... Injunctcoitis.

Everyone:

King: I have never heard of this Injunctcoitis. *turns to the court physician*

Court physician: Neither have I, your Majesty.

Reader: It's a northern disease! From the north! Where I'm from!

King: *looks at court physician*

Court physician: It is possible, your Majesty. *approaches Reader starts inspecting her* And what are the symptoms?

Reader: Oh, w-women don't have any symptoms. *takes a deep breath and composes herself* But for men it makes their dick fall off.

Everyone: IT WHAT!?!?!?!

Reader: Yep! After two months, yo dick just gonna... fall off. And it's a sexually transmitted disease.

King: I can't take any risk of that being true! Get them out of here before this disease spreads to the kingdom!

The Pilgrim Gang: *gets escorted out of the kingdom*

Everyone:

Reader: *sniffles*

The boys: *hugs Reader*

P.S. this so wasn't dumb I had fun writing this 🤭

[margueritedaisies]

1978 Sanzang (Masako Natsume) × 1998 Wukong (Dicky Cheung)

Just them being cute✨😩🫶🐒📿🍑✨They so wholesome together

Also I just love her eyes??? Like shes soo pretty😻

[monkey-and-monk]

Hello! I've opened my discord server that's all about SunTang, in the hopes that it could serve as a safe and chill gathering spot for other fans of this duo.

If you like these two characters, then you're more than welcome to come hang out with other like-minded fans! Invite your friends!

[mehiwilldoitlater]

Journey to the Rent

You sniffed again, your eyes glued to the streetlamp; the light trembled here and there, a few moths attracted by its light.

You lost track of time; how long were you sitting on that half-wet bench? The Clouds i. The sky covered the moon, and you needed to turn off your phone. You didn't want to hear It rang; you didn't want to talk or be found right now. Your luggage near you reminded you about your long-lost happiness, wishing that you never had to take the planet back in this city that now, more than ever, felt so big and cold.

Yes, cold, you felt cold... well, you were in the middle of a park at night, of course. It was cold now. This thought, luckily, was able to take you away from the reason why you couldn't go back to your apartment...

Yes, at that right moment you were currently homeless. To be fair, you had all the rights in the world to stay in your home, but the idea now... It made you sick. You felt like a coward even, why weren't you fighting back?

Because you felt that it was coming...

No, no distractions. You straighten your back, now focusing on your important task: not dying on a cold November night. You rose up, taking your backpack and your luggage, slowly walking away from the small playground, hoping to find in the meantime a good idea.

Calling your parents was out of the question; they lived far away, and you didn't have any energy left for another trip. You could have asked your friends to stay the night, but you didn't want to involve them in your drama. You all went on vacation to help Nicole tò get over her divorce. After a single One year of marriage, which was ALREADY enough for her. And, the most important part, was that he knew all these people, he had their number, and he could have easily found you.

At least for that night, you wanted to be invisible, disappear, and not exist.

Maybe you could book a room in a motel? Yeah, no pass. The idea of freezing to death was more appealing than passing it inside one of those places...Maybe an hotel? It seemed the most rational idea! But you didn't know how long you would have stayed there, and that was pretty much money drying. Not to mention that, right now, you have zero idea how many hotels near your workplace are available.

You started to contemplate going to a shelter for the homeless when a small glint caught your eye. It was a small gleam, for only a second; if it wasn't for that car passing by near the gate of the park, you would have surely missed it. A notice board, one of those people put photos of lost pets, a number for reps for school, a job advertisement, and all of those staff. Some people preferred a more direct approach than using some apps, and those noticed board were pretty usefull sometimes.

There, tacked over the other, a golden piece of plastic paper. The writings were in a darker shade of red, and by the looks of the ink, it seemed that they made it by hand, and that was the first, if not the only, of that advertiser made it in that way.

At first glance, you would have found It was quite tacky for its presentation, arrogant even, since it covered all the other papers but dismissed everything when you noticed what the paint strokes were saying.

Thunderclap apartments. 

Bilocals ready To immediate use: car parking, functional elevators,

and a private pool for the residents. 

A refuge for the mind and the soul!

Alongside that, an address and a few phone numbers, from the owner probably.

In other situations you would certainly have avoided something so tempting like this one, since it was probably a scam. And yet, you took the golden, plastified paper, looking at the phone number, desperate enough to try everything that you could find.

When you reached the nearest phone cabin, you had a few second thoughts about this idea, but as soon as you inserted the coin and typed the number, you felt more adamant about it.

A few minutes passed, and there was no response. Maybe it was really a scam; maybe no one was behind that number... maybe coming back wasn't such a

"Hello?"

The voice of A man came from the other side. It felt like the voice of someone that could break your back in two with an Hug and yet seemed nice by the tone he used.

"H-hello?" Your voice trembled a little, whether from the cold or from the nervousness you didn't know. "Is this Thunderclap Apartments number?"

"Wujing, it's dinner time!" An acute voice came from the background; you had a little more conscience on what time it was now.

"Yes, yes, it's me! Well, I AM one of the owners, of course! You can call me Sha Wujing! Can I help you?" A shuffle, he must have stood up from his seat. Yes, he was really helpful now.

"Oh, hello! My name Is Y/n F/n and...I found the announcement for the apartment, and I was—" you heard a rumble in the sky—"more than interested!"

"Oh! Oh yes, the announcement! Yes, of course! We can set up a meeting tomorrow after-"

"N-no, Mr.... ehm, Wujing... I wonder if the immediate means...like now..."

"Now?...now now?"

"....yes..."

While the silence and the small murmur in the background kept going for a minute or two, your anxiety kept on growing in your belly. It wasn't about the possible rejection; that you know was more than just justified; you literally asked to get a roof over your head pronto. No, what you feared was that the only option there was to go back to face the inevitable.

"Are you in some big trouble, uh?"

"...well, not troubles like police and stuff, but... yeah..."

He sighed; you prayed for a quick no, swift and painless.

"Well, I can't turn down a request for help. How long till you're here?"

The surprise of the respond was enough to make you speechless. Really? Just like that?! Wait, maybe that was really a scam! Maybe they were—

"Miss? Miss, are you there?"

Okay, no, no more questioning!

"Ah! Yes! Yes, I'll be there as soon as I can!"

"Good! Later than!"

"YES! Thank you, thank you so much!"

You had to hang up, and... you felt a wave of relief washing over you. You had to give yourself a few slaps on your cheeks, enough to believe that you really resolved your problem in such a short time... there was still the chance that it wasn't safe at all and you were literally giving yourself to a bunch of criminals, but you wanted to push this small moment of luck that you had found.

It was when some cold drops of rain and some more thunders reminded you that you needed to find a taxi, and so you sprinted out from the park.

///

As soon as you reached the place, it was now raining hard. You even had some trouble seeing through the old glass of the car, but, from the lack of lights and buildings, the complex must have been built a little far from the center of the city.

It wasn't such a bad thing, especially in your actual situation. You'll have to find a way to go to work, but you had time for that. Maybe it wasn't so bad that the bad weather forced you and your friends to come back sooner...

At least you found out ...

Before you could go back to your spiral of thoughts, the cranky voice of the driver got you back to reality.

"We're here..."

You paid with the little cash you had with you, forsaking the fact that you had brought everything with you EXCEPT for an umbrella. The driver didn't have anything left from other customers, so you had just the option to walk under the pouring rain.

The Rain made It hard to see the palace, even if the lights were lit up, but what you could see was that it was quite big. By the iron fence, the lamps that decorated the pavement from the main gate to the entrance and the lights from the structure, it seemed like an old place that was renowned.

The main gate, a big old-fashioned kind of metal one, was left open. Maybe it was supposed to be that way, maybe left for you; you didn't care. Your worries now were to run as fast as you could under the rain, protecting your laptop in your backpack, which your friends had made fun of you for since you had brought it on a holiday, and the few important items that you wanted to be dry.

You found refuge from the rain under the patio that preceded the door. It was an old type, made of wood, and the center decorated with stained glass, a fancy design with several flowers and plants. The only contemporary object was the intercom on the right of the door, and after a small research of the right button, you called inside, waiting for a response.

Between the sound of the raging door and the heavy drops camping from your now soaked form, the intercom lightened up, showing a sign of life from It. Before you could hear any sound from it, the light from the other side of the door had turned on, showing some movements from the other side and a staircase, which you weren't sure was an actual one until two figures had moved quickly on it.

Strange, you thought, then a long beep emitted from the intercom.

"Hello? Miss Y/n?" It was the calm and understanding voice of Wujing.

"Yes, it's me!"

"Ah! Good! Please come in!"

A small click from the door and a good push, that was all you needed to get in. It was an old door, but it seems that the owners decided to install all the security in it! And, speaking of the owners...

When you heard the voice, your first thought was that this Sha Wujing was some kind of big man; what you couldn't understand was that he was quite REALLY a big man! The two first features that caught your attention were the fact that he was almost near 2 meters in height and large like a bear and his vibrant hair and beard, colored in a vibrant red. Tied up in a high bun, they almost looked fake by the color they showed, since it was almost impossible to exist such a color in nature! His eyes were dark, and, despite his oriental name, they were quite big and round. He almost reminded you of a fish by those curious traits.

He seemed like the kind of man that you REALLY didn't want to have against you in a fight, because by the looks of it, he was really strong, maybe able to crush a skull between his thighs, covered in a pair of thick jeans. And yet, despite his looks, his face showed a kind and patient smile. Honestly, if you had to guess a possible second work aside from being an apartment owner, you could guess between a bodyguard or a teacher, since he had that kind of smile that could make every kid behave.

"Finally, it's nice to have a face on the voice!" he said between a small chuckle, ignoring the dripping water on the carpet that you were leaving. "And by the look of it, the rabbi found you first..."

"Yeah..." you scratched your head a little, posing down your backpack."So, umm... nice to meet you! I'm Y/n...Y/N F/n...I'm... I'm so grateful for your kindness!"

"Oh please! You're not the first one to ask for such a thing! It's our duty to help the ones in need!"

Wow, so they did this thing often? They didn't care about records or stuff? You started to wonder about the other tenets of that place and were a little worried since you'll have to stay there for who knows how long. You noticed then that he was looking at you with a strange anticipation...like waiting for something.

A minute passed; you cleared your throat, waiting for him to show you the house, and he just looked around, feeling your same nervousness.

"You know... You can take it off!" He exclaimed, moving his hands.

You raised your eyebrow, looking at him in a mix of confusion and disbelief. You touched your wet hoodie, the only warmth you had from it now gone with the freezing rain.

"...My...hoodie?"

"Come on, darling! I'm sure you're ADORABLE!"

The second voice came from the stairs, where the two figures that you spotted from outside were. Leaning from the railing on the stairhead, just in front in what you supposed was the elevator, the one who spoke was a large man; the muscles were not as prominent as the one of Wujing, but he still gave you the idea of strength in him. He had the kind of face of the men that you met in a disco, who try so hard to woo you for hours and don't take a hint even if it's splatted on their face. It seemed like an offense, but...his face reminded you...a pig... He had a large nose, decorated with a large nose piercing, his eyes still large but like Wujing ones. His hair, black like ink, was tied in a low ponytail. 

The second one...honestly, you couldn't look at him for so long. It wasn't the fact that you couldn't even get one inch of their feature; guilty, the sweatshirt they wore, it was his...aura. You never had believed in that staff, but in the moment that you really tried to focus on that second figure, you felt his eyes on you, and you had to divert your eyes from them, and, with the corner of your eyes, you almost believed that they were glowing for a second. You couldn't describe it, but you believed that that was the same sensation that a prey feels in front of the predator, or like when you're in front of something so big that you have to take a step back.

You felt small, and you really wished that Wujing could just take you away; instead, he just shushed the first one. 

"I understand; you don't feel comfortable! Here, I'll do it first!"

"You... want to take off your tank top?" Oh no, please, not a nudist club!

You really started to panic when a voice thundered from the stairs.

"Wujing, she's NOT..." His voice was... you couldn't describe it, but it seemed like a snarl from the tone. Wujing looked at him for a few seconds, then his eyes came back to you.

"...You're not... OH... OH GODS!" It was his turn to panic and to feel mortified for the terrible idea that he had and the first impression with you. You just looked at him, more confused and awkwardly since you were still there trying to understand what he was talking about. You noticed that the second man had the same expression as him, less mortified and more embarrassed. The third one... seemed to not care at all.

"Oh no, I was assuming...the advertiser... Wait, you're dripping wet!" He had noticed just now? "You need a towel or you're going to catch a cold! Don't move, stay here!" And he disappeared behind a door that you noticed just now, behind a large vase, an Asian one by the looks of it, where a series of some small version of a bamboo grew. The silence fell again when the door slammed for his strength, leaving you there with the mysterious duo.

"...I'm not...what?" You finally were able to speak again.

"Um...a lawyer." The large man received what you supposed was a dirty look from the other, but what you saw was just a movement with his hands that was supposed to be Are you serious?" Wow, you weren't one to judge, but his fingernails were...long and sharp...nice.

"Because..." the large one continued, "Lawyers don't...go around...during a storm...."

"...I guess?" No, they weren't nudist; they were crazy. Well, better crazy than criminals, right?

Honestly, what was wrong with them?! Firstly, they act all nice and dandy, like you were some old friend coming to take a visit in town, and now they act all strange and worried? That wasn't a real criminal kind of way to act, but it seemed like they were expecting something from you, which you didn't know what it was, honestly. When the door opened up again, Wujing was holding a ...pink fluffy towel. Really not something that you expected, but you couldn't guess much when he was literally drying you like you were a toddler.

"You... you don't have to!" You tried to smutter up while he was creating fire with the many strokes he gave you.

"No, no, I left you here in the cold... gods, what a night..."

"You...could say that..." you sighed, finally free from his grasp and the towel around your neck. 

His look, still worried for something that you didn't know what, looked at you for a few seconds, and there, you started to wonder if there was some sort of problem with you. He clicked his tongue, searching for the right words.

"Y/n... can I call you Y/n, right? No matter um..." He clearly didn't know how to explain whatever he needed to do; maybe it was too complicated to explain? "You...you are...a normal person, right?"

"Normal...OH!" You felt a rush of fear crossing you; he was having second thoughts?! So much to help someone in need! "OH! Oh yes! Please, please, I need to stay here! Here! I have my laptop; we can check my bank account together. I just need—" You were already opening your backpack when his hand stopped you, trying to calm you down.

"No, no, I believe you! You don't need to show me anything, but... um... you said you found the golden paper, right?"

"Uh...yes, in the park. I have It right here, see?" You took out from your pocket the plastic paper, opening up in front of his quite surprised eyes. He looked at it, then at the two on the stairs, to which they responded with a shrug from them.

It seemed like they were confused about the fact that you actually had that thing in your hands, which did worry a little your stressed mind further. But, before something else could happen, Wujing just turned back to you, a tired smile on his face.

"Well, I guess it is what it is!" Welcome to Thunderclap apartments, Missy!"

...Wow, everything turned back to normal? Well, sort of at least. Before you could react, he took your luggage from the ground, holding it like it wasn't weighing a thing.

"All right, let's take the elevator. We have a good place for you on the first floor, but we can take it in this case."

You wondered how tired you looked, or pathetic and desperate, but at that moment it wasn't the first of your worries. You just wanted to collapse on a bed and try to sleep...

The two men looked at you from the stair, now with a punch of curiosity in this new presence in the building. You felt again that heavy feeling on your shoulder every time the one in the hoodie watched you; this time you even noticed something off with his face ... It seemed like his nose was... flat? And he had a pair of long teeth. For the nose, you weren't sure, but for the teeth and his looks, maybe he was one of those wannabe vampires.

Finally, the door of the elevator closed up, and you breathed normally.

"So," the almost normal member of the owners spoke, "I don't want to dig in your business, but... you really look..."

"Like SHIT?"

"Your words, not mine!" You chuckled a little.

"I... well, let's just say I had a hell of a day. I'm sorry to be a trouble, anyway."

"Nah, you just surprised us, that's all! You looked like you were running away!" He wasn't lying, though...

"I had just returned from a peaceful holiday, and now I'm on the street, not a runaway, I swear."

"Ish, from Heaven to hell, huh?"

This time, you actually laughed. Despite all the strangeness that they showed, this Wujing seemed like a pretty decent guy. He was nice, understandable, and kind enough to not pry too much into your current situation. He was quite nice and the complete opposite of what usually house owners are described as, giving a sense of relief and the feeling of being lucky once in a while.

Once you reached the floor, another small ping came from the elevator, and you both exited the small cabin. In front of you, two doors faced each other with 3 meters of separation by the landing. Wujing reached for the One at your left, opening with One of the many keys hanging from a keychain, a strange metal thing, it seemed like a small stick with a crescent moon on one side... He must had liked Sailor Moon.

Once he opened the door, you were able to look inside and... It wasn't bad at all.

The living room wasn't too big or too small but just enough to put some furniture here and there. The most interesting thing was the big window that faced towards the road, giving you the idea that once under the sun, that place was made to be bright.

"Wow, I have lights and electricity?"

"Yeah, we decided to give you an extra because of the rush. It seemed like we were right, uh?"

The kitchen and the living room faced each other; an island made of wood was the only object that separated the two. It was a good idea of someone wanting to throw a dinner since it was easy to transform the living room into a dining room. The kitchen had what every kitchen needed: a few shelves, a pantry, and the stoves.

"This is the bathroom! We renovated the apartments, but we decided to just give a refresh to the bathrooms for the Styles. My mast—I mean, my co-owner—believed that taking away their original design was a sin!"

And you couldn't agree more! The color of the times was a soft shade of honey tones, and Just in the middle there was a series of ones that reminded you of some seaweed by the designs. The bathtub, a large One with Lion paws, was near the stained-glass Windows, wich reminded you of the feont door! Then a sink, some shelves...but something's missing.

"Uh...what about the washing machine?"

"Oh..." he scratched his head with an apologetic tone. "Well... yeah, we had a few... issues with our laundry area..."

"You have a laundry area?" There wasn't anything about it in the advertiser..."

"We...didn't put it...because of the issues!" 

"...What kind of issues?"

"Pff... some... tube issues... do not worry too much! We're working on it! For now, there is a good laundry shop not far from here!"

It sounded more like an excuse, but he said that it was something temporary...so maybe they were just using it for some drugs or staff; who were you to judge?

And finally...the bedroom. A spacious room, an old bed with a mattress that, despite the place, seemed quite clean, and a balcony that led to the other side of the building. Simple, no furniture... But it seemed quite lovely, just like the rest of the house.

"So...that's it! It's not that big, but quite nice as a flat. The price is 600 dollars monthly, bills excluded. You can use the free Wi-Fi of the condo, but I suggest you buy a Wi-Fi as soon as possible!"

Honestly, with that price, you felt like they were literally gifting you this place! Maybe staying wasn't such a bad idea after all! He gave you the key, and you led him to the door, listening to the last information that you needed.

"I leave you alone now; you look like you need sleep. Tomorrow we'll fix the last small details."

"Seriously, you're a lifesaver..."

"And, as I said, you're not the first one. We do this all the time... Are you sure you don't need any blankets?"

"Nah, got my staff...thank you..."

"Eh, you're welcome... night!"

When the door clicked, you felt the strength in your legs start to fade away. You touched your hair, feeling the dampness of the towel...ah, you forgot to give it back...another small thing to do in the morning. You could have just changed, taken the pajamas in your luggage, and cleaned a little yourself, but you didn't have any strength to do that. You found yourself removing everything except that old t-shirt that you had inherited from your dad, a stupid thing with a fish coming out from a tunnel and the ominous writing soon on it.

You allowed your body to collapse on that mattress, ignoring the possibility of getting some bedbugs on you. In all honesty, you didn't care at all; you just turned off the light and started looking at the ceiling, rethinking many life choices and many things that happened in the few hours.

You left your house... your shared house... you left your boyfriend there... him alone... with that girl that he had told you to not worry about. A girl that you saw plenty of times at the theater, that you wanted to believe was just too friendly.

He had cheated you while you were away... You came back sooner, and you found him red-handed... and you ran away. You did nothing, just ran away...

All the tears that you kept in you finally started to come out. And, between sobs and sighs, you found yourself crying yourself to sleep.

///

 Blasting music came from a car, one of those that really rich kids can even manage to possess. He fixed his long hair out from his electric blue jacket, laughing and jumping out from the vehicle. A girl laughed alongside a few of her friends while talking about the douchebag that was flirting with her all night. The rider, a boy with a huge grin on his face, looked at the one that was still saying goodbye to his friends.

"Yo, same time next week?"

"Please, please, please, you have to come, Lie! It's not fun if you're not around!"

"You heard the lady, big man!"

He laughed, splashing some puddles with his expensive and far too colored sneakers, while slowly reaching for the complex while the light lamps started to open up. "All right, all right! You babies always act as brats! I'll accompany you again, but you have to behave, alright?!"

And with more laughs and taunts, the groups drove off, the music slowly disappearing, letting the music of the night come back to the area. When Ao Lie walked towards the door, he imagined the disappointed look of his master, questioning him about his whereabouts of the night; instead, he found himself alone in the entrance hall. Everyone must have been asleep, he thought, but hearing a few smacks from the stairs and some ominous little lights, floating here and there, making the place more freezing than it was supposed to be, he must retake his own words.

Since he hated doing his own business, he decided to follow the sounds and the creepy lights, only to find his old brother, staff in his hand, sitting with his back on a door, smacking a few of those evil spirits away. A yawn from him was enough to understand that he didn't exactly want to be there; who knows what he had done this time?

"Oh! Did you make Master angry again?"

"You're late again, "the cranky voice spoke."Had fun?"

"As always!" said Ao Lie, sitting next to his brother, while a long and scaly tail came from him, smacking another of those little things."You should come one of these days; it would be a change of air at least!"

"Nah. I don't like that blasty stuff you hear at those clubs that you like."

Ao Lie laughed a little; he knew his brother far too well, and he loved messing around with him a little. Then, his attention came back to those spirits, trying to get to that door it seemed.

"Quite feisty this night, huh? What's inside this flat anyway? Wasn't it empty?"

"A girl came..."

"A demon one?"

"Nope, a mortal one." Ao Lie gave him a look like asking him if he was joking. "Yeah, I know...crazy, right? Master asked him to guard her for this night. He plans to do something tomorrow...some mantra or staff to protect her..."

"Wait...how does a mortal find this place anyway?"

"She found the golden sigil..." Ao Lie gasped, "Yup... I know..."

A silence has fallen between the two, now two objects smacking the spirits away from the door or just smashing them. It wasn't the first time a mortal found that place, but it was abnormal that the golden sigil led them there. It was made for... non-mortal people.

"I don't know what's wrong with her, but she had cried herself to sleep."

"Oh...a runaway maybe?"

"Like I care..." And again with the attitude of the cold-hearted one... If he really didn't care, he would not have guarded that door even. It was a master order, but he would have found a way to sneak around the job, and he even listened to her cries... Well, it wasn't his problem, but he would have used that against him one day.

"...We need to fix the laundry problem," said Ao Lie, smacking another spirit. "These things are starting to get on my nerves."

"That old lady loves sneaking through the tubes, you know that..."

"Yeah, but it was you the one that had trapped her in the washing machine, remember?" Ao Lie's old brother decided to stay silent.