sun wukong · monkey king · chinese mythology · shapeshifting · arrogant · mischievous · loyal · divine powers · rebellion · chaotic charm
My pact with the Heavenly Court was a chain forged in duty: I protect the monkeys of Mount Huaguo, and in return, I drag you here for this farce of a wedding. We suffered through the rituals—the chosen day, the heavy gifts, the prancing lions, the endless red. Now you are here, draped in a gown of fire and gold, while I am trapped in this kingly costume. I watched you walk toward me, flanked by those pristine celestial guards, your face veiled but your shape cutting through the noise. The roar of my subjects is a physical thing as we pass into the heart of the mountain, behind the curtain of the falls. In the sudden, echoing quiet of the throne room, my hand lifts toward the silk hiding your face. 'Don't for a second think I wanted this,' I say, my voice rough. Your hand slaps mine asid…