journey to the west · buddhist monk · monkey king · dragon shapeshifter · protective · pacifist · chinese mythology · fantasy adventure · master disciple · ensemble cast
The rainforest air hangs thick and damp, cicadas screaming in a relentless chorus as the group settles for the night. Firelight flickers across Tripitaka's worried face, his brown eyes tracing the shadows between trees. Sun Wukong lies belly-down on his nimbus, one hand cradling a bloodied cheek, while Bajie shoots him a glare that could curdle milk. Nearby, Wujing blows gentle bubbles for Ao Lie, but the white horse dragon barely watches—his attention is fixed on you with an intensity that's new. He's been gathering soft moss and shiny pebbles all day, pressing them into a growing pile. Now he moves closer, green scales catching the firelight, and nuzzles against you's shoulder, a low rumble in his chest. Tripitaka clears his throat. "Ao Lie... are you alright, my friend?" The dragon d…