▪ "𝐖𝐞'𝐥𝐥 𝐦𝐞𝐞𝐭 𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧." ▪

You and the others had been walking through the desert for hours and were getting practically nowhere. You didn't care too much about the heat, you've delt with worse. You would have summoned your star to make the exploration easier, but you couldn't carry everyone on a star, and in the state they were in now it looked like they weren't going to survive on their own. Both Mei and MK were on Sandy's back, sweating heavily from the heat. "Dumb Macaque. Dumb desert. Not blaming you or anything, MK." Mei panted, putting her jacket over her head for the least bit of shade. "You know what? I can't even at you right now, Mei." MK groaned, his body draped over Sandy's shoulder. "You know, if you're tired, I can carry one of them." You offered Sandy, which made MK and Mei perk up. Sandy waved his hand in dismissal. "It's fine, don't worry, gang. We just have to keep moving forever and ever until we're-" Sandy then collapsed, bringing MK and Mei with him. They had passed out from the heat. You stared down at them with a blank face. Oh boy, how were you guys going to find Pigsy, Wukong and Tang and find the first ring now?

Sighing, you wiped some sweat off your forehead and contemplated what you were going to do to get them moving again. The loud sound of an engine roared in the distance, making you break out of your thoughts and shield your face from the sand that was kicked up as the vehicle stopped in front of you and the others. A man hopped out of the vehicle. He had red hair that reminded you of fire by the way his high ponytail stuck up. Small glasses were placed on his face, with a red dot slightly above and in between his eyebrows and a small unique shaped scar. He wore a red long-sleeved trench coat that was torn at the ends over a black shirt. He had indigo pants with a purple belt, silver buckle, and orange suspenders that rested at his hips. "Wha...? Who's..." You heard MK groan, as his eyes opened slightly. "Noodle Boy." The unknown man sneered, as MK fell unconscious. The man then noticed your gaze and turned to you. Both of your eyes widened when you got a good look at each other. "It's you!" You both yelled at the same time.

∘ - ✩彡 - ∘

You casually walked through the markets, looking around at the mortals that were either buying things at the stalls, or just roaming around and admiring the sights of the decorations around the area. New Years really is pleasant, isn't it? You wore a long [F/C] kimono that managed to cover most of your tail, though some was sticking out a tad bit. You didn't mind though, it's not like anyone was going really notice. You tried blending in with the humans this New Years to experience the sights in person rather than from the top of a building or the edge of a nearby cliff. Your right ear twitched as yelling came from that direction. You decided to go and check it out.

It didn't take you long to pinpoint where the source of the noise was, as you stopped near a stand with two angry people. The person behind the stand wore a white apron with a red trench coat under it. He had a white little baker's skull cap. You could tell the man was a demon. His aura gave it away. He had his hands on the counter of the stand, leaning towards an angry customer. The customer in question had dark cyan hair and a lavender top with blue jeans, purple shoes, and one single finger-less black gloves. "Oh, so I guess I meant to make barbecue for peasants with little, unworthy, disappointing taste buds that shame their fathers! Is that it, huh?!" The man in the apron yelled with exaggerated movements to express his anger. The customer grabbed the other man by his collar. "Look, I want to speak to the manager." The customer said in an irritated voice. 'Looks like karen wants to speak to the manager again' You giggled at your own thoughts, before paying more attention to the scene. The man behind the counter clenched his fists before snickering. "Fine, fine. It's your funeral." He raised his arm and pointed to someone who you couldn't see from the angle you were watching. The customer's face formed onto one of fear and he stared wide eyed at whatever he was seeing. "Uh I-I actually didn't need taste buds anyway so thank you for your service and have a prosperous and fulfilling New Year." He then ran away, screaming. You tilted your head as you watched the man in the apron talking to someone who you couldn't see.

You decided to walk up to the stand, where the man behind the counter stood boredly until he noticed your presence. He smiled as kindly as he could, before greeting you. "Why hello there." He pulled down a chart that showed the different levels of spiciness from very hot to inferno in all capital letters. "What would you like on this fine New Years celebration? Don't be shy!" You looked at the chart before settling with very hot. "Coming right up!" He replied, walking to a table in the stand and walking back to the counter with the food. He handed you the food, before watching as you reluctantly took a bite. You hummed, licking your lips. The man watched you carefully as you took another bite. "This is really good." You remarked, smiling at the demon. His eyes widened when he watched you take a third bite. You reached into your sleeve and pulled out your wallet and stared to count your money. You put the money on the counter, letting him stare at it in surprise before looking back at you with wide eyes. "What's your name?" You asked out of the blue, making him slightly stutter. "I-I am Redson! Son of the Demon Bull King and Princess Iron Fan!" You almost choked on your food. This was DBK and PIF's son!? He looked all grown up. You tried as best as you could to hide your surprised expression and smiled generously. "Well, Redson. This is some really good stuff. I can't believe that one guy didn't like it!" "I know right!? These peasants don't know what good food tastes like!" The demon, now known as Redson, placed a hand on his chest. "I'm glad someone can appreciate this fine dish!" You laughed, nodding. "Well, I'm going to go check out the parade. See ya later Redson." You waved, before walking away but abruptly stopping and turning back to him. "Oh, and keep the change!" You then disappeared into the crowd who were also heading to the parade. Redson watched you leave and smiled. Finally, someone could appreciate his cooking.

It was a shame that you had to leave the parade so early, due to the whole Spider Queen attack. MK had managed to handle the situation and defeat the threat once again. After your encounter with the hot-headed prince, you two managed to reunite a couple more times in alleyways. You would be putting your back against the wall, and he would suddenly be in front of you. You two managed to get along. You even told him how you knew his father and mother when he was a child. He was shocked to say the least. He wanted to bring you back to his palace to show you his inventions one day that you had taken interest in. "Sorry, but I don't know if your parents would want to really see me again." You had said. He was confused, yet he didn't push you for an answer since you looked like you didn't want to give one. The last time you saw him was when you two took a walk around the street at night, admiring the stars. After the whole LDB incident, you'd been secretly worrying if he was safe.

∘ - ✩彡 - ∘

His eyes softened at you, as you tilted your head at him. "So, I assume you're with these peasants?" He asked, cocking an eyebrow. You nodded, and your eyes turned to the large truck that was parked behind him. "Nice invention." You noted, putting a hand up to your chin. "I bet that took a while. Looks really cool." He huffed proudly and spoke confidently. "Of course, it's cool! I made it myself with my bear hands!" He gloated, as you giggled. "Well, I'm glad to know you're alright after what happened to the city." Redson frowned, crossing his arms. "Yes. Well, me and my family have been residing in our palace." He looked down at MK and the others scowling. "Come on, I'm bringing you to my palace." He turned around and started walking to the truck. You tensed, looking back down at the gang who were still passed out on the sand. Redson glanced back when he noticed you hadn't moved an inch and frowned. He looked back at the others and waved his hand. "Fine. If you wish for them to accompany you, they may. As long as they don't make a mess." You smiled, before lifting beginning to carry the three one by one into the truck.

∘ - ✩彡 - ∘

You deadpanned at your three friends who were shoveling food into their mouths hungrily. You took a bite from your food with the fork in your hand, as Redson stared disapprovingly at the others who were rudely shoving food down their throats. MK grabbed the glass of water in front of him and quickly chugged it down. "That's the good stuff!" He said, holding the glass high into the air before bringing it to his mouth and kissing it. You sent Redson a glance, which he returned at the same time. "You're welcome, by the way." Redson said, turning back to your friends with crossed arms. "Thanks, Red Boy!" Mei said with a mouthful of food and a bowl of food in her hand. "You're the man!" She flicked the bowl harshly, making some of the food from the bowl splat on his face. "It's Red Son!" Redson placed his foot on the table, glaring. "I should have just left you to the vultures." He took his foot off the table, still glaring at your friends who weren't showing proper table manners. "You're lucky I know Y/N. Else I would've left you out there in the burning desert." You gave him a tap on the arm with your elbow, which made him turn to you with a confused frown. You pointed to where MK was walking out of the room, making Redson fume and ran off after him. "YO! YOUR NEW CRIB IS TOIGHT!" You snorted at MK's echo that you were sure that everyone in the fortress heard. After a couple seconds, Redson came back carrying MK over his head. 

"Would you stop being so annoying!?" He threw MK back into his chair and went back to his own. "You three aren't even supposed to be here-" He angrily pointed to all of them wildly, before taking a seat in his chair and taking the glass of water in front of him in his hand. "-so, I'd appreciate if you finished up and went about whatever obnoxious business you were in the middle of before I saved your pathetic, meaningless lives." He said, crushing the glass in his hand. MK placed another glass of water in Redson's hand. "On it, boss! Your wish is our demand." MK hopped back to his seat as Redson facepalmed while sighing. You cleared your throat, getting everyone's attention. "Sorry if they seem a bit..uh.. Too much, Redson." You awkwardly apologized, as you poked your food with your fork. Redson sat upright and closed his eyes. "Do not apologize for them, Y/N. It's not like you're the problem here." Mei and MK glared at Redson as he patted your shoulder. Redson glanced back at the two and glared at them as well, making an awkward silence fill the room. Redson then smirked and slid his arm around your waist and pulled your chair next to his. You sweat dropped as you noticed MK and Mei's eyes glowing dangerously. Redson then took his hands off of you and took off his glasses. "What were you noodle brains doing out there anyway?" He took a sip from his glass of water just as Mei replied with gritted teeth. "Looking for the Samadhi Fire." Redson spat out his water, making you shield your face from getting wet. His hand slammed on the table as he looked at the three incredulously. "The Samadhi wha-!?" The whole area started to slightly shake at each large footstep that was taken behind the lavafall in front of the table. The lava slowly parted, revealing the one person you didn't want to meet. 

The Demon Bull King. He held a large piece of meat in his hand and rested it over his shoulder. He glared at your friend that sat frozen in shock at the sight of him. "The little thief returns." DBK glared at mainly MK, who sweat nervously. "Yo, Daddy! I mean - demon daddy! I mean, Mr. Bull King, sir! We - we still cool, right?" DBK dropped the piece of meat he was holding on the middle of the table, making you flinch harshly as it shook the table with a loud thud. Redson got out of his chair and stood in front of his father with a guilty expression. "Father. You're back earlier than I expected." He nervously chuckled, when a strong gust of wind came. You shakily glanced over and saw Princess Iron Fan float into her chair. "I was expecting a banquet. I wasn't expecting company." MK chuckled nervously, while Sandy and Mei shared a few words. PIF's gaze soon landed on your nervous one. You shakily smiled and waved. Her eyes widened, and she sat upright. "You-! What are you doing here!?" DBK's gaze shifted to you as well, and he narrowed his eyes, huffing. "I see you're back." You nodded, as a bead of sweat ran down your face. Redson then beamed and put an arm around your shoulder. He pressed his head against your, grinning widely. "Well, I see you both already know Y/N. I have been meaning to bring them to you for a long time." PIF looked over at her son. "Oh? You have?" "Yes mother! I have known them for a while, and I've been meaning to introduce them to you both. However, they have informed me that you all know each other." PIF glanced back at you. "We go way back." Redson was still confused but decided not to ask. After a moment, you continued to keep eating your food while PIF was talking to your friends. "So, tell me, what precisely have you intruded on our dinner plans?" You were about to answer, before Redson pulled you closer. "They're looking for the Samadhi Fire." PIF and DBK both spat out their waters. "What?!" "I see you've heard of it?" DBK slammed both hands on the table, making your glass of water tip over from the force and spill onto the table. You nervously chuckled and grabbed a napkin, wiping away all the water. You weren't paying much attention to the conversation, before you perked up at DBK mentioning your name. 

"Huh?" You hummed, getting a glare in return. "The Samadhi Fire. You know of its origins don't you." You gulped, as all attention turned to you. You placed your hands on your lap and looked down at the grand table. "Yes, I do." Your gaze lifted to DBK. "You know I do." "Well, if you guys know so much, then you tell us. What don't we know?" MK asked. You let PIF take it from there, holding your breath for the big reveal. "That the Samadhi Fire was created..." She looked away for a moment, pausing her sentence. "-by our own son." MK and Mei were shocked, but not as shocked as Redson who almost fell out of his seat. You caught him at the last second, pulling him back into his chair. Sandy had a hand on his chin, scratching his ginger beard. "Um, Mother?" Redson, looked at his mother, who guiltily looked away. You knew this story, but you still listened, not wanting to look rude. "When Red Son was born, he appeared to be the same as any other demonic child, a promising addition to the Demon Bull Family. Too promising. As he grew, his power became... unstable. Even with our combined might, we could not control him. Reluctantly-" DBK took over the conversation. "We were given no option but to... remove this power. Our bodies were deemed the most likely to survive separating the fire from the child. It took our combined forces to split the flame into three pieces, sealing their power. Together, we swore to keep the rings hidden for all eternity. So, you can see that it would be impossible for fools such as yourselves to control that power if even the spawn of the Demon Bull King himself could not." 

You noticed Redson lit a small flame in his hands and look at it in deep thought. You pat his back, making him lean against your chest. You blushed in embarrassment, as you felt his mother's gaze on you. You tried to hide your nervousness as best as you could while you pat his head. "I mean, I'm the Monkie Kid, remember? We've pulled off all sorts of crazy stuff before!" MK yelled, before he squeezed Redson, you and his friends into a hug. His face was squished against yours. "There ain't nothing we can't do if we do it as a team!" You glanced at MK with a hopeful smile, as Sandy and Mei yelled out in agreement. MK noticed our smile and blushed, pulling you closer to him. Redson however, wasn't having any of it. "Urgh, let me go, noodle brain!" Redson flailed around wildly trying to get MK to let go of him. When he broke free, he pulled you away from MK and placed you behind him. 

"Well, I, for one, think that's quite enough story time for one day." You glanced over at PIF, who disappeared in a wind tornado. Her voice echoed throughout the room. "Come along, my love. I do believe that little baking show you like is about to start." "Coming, dear." DBK stood, as his nose ring glimmered. A Samadhi fire ring. MK gasped loudly and pointed to where DBK once was. Mei seemed to notice it as well. "So, I guess you three will be heading off about now, then." Redson touched Mei's shoulder, and you watched in confusion as moments later he stumbled back in surprise. "What the-" "Well, actually, this whole area is surrounded by lava pits-" MK scratched the back of his head. "-and it's pretty dark out, right, Sandy?" "Yeah, we could fall right on in and-" Sandy screams as he pretended to fall into a lava pit. You snickered at his performance. "You get me?" Redson sighed, a frown evident on his face. You pat his shoulder and gave him a sorry smile. He just shook his head and took your hand in his, dragging you away. He looked back at the group, narrowing his eyes. "I will show you all where you will be sleeping for the night."

∘ - ✩彡 - ∘

MK, Mei and Sandy were tucked into beds in the guest room, as Redson stood in front of the door. His hair was no longer in a ponytail, instead it cascaded down his back. He wore a more comfortable outfit as well. His other hand was in the pocket of his pajama pants, looking at the group of friends. "Will that be all, then?" He asked. "It's a bit cold. An extra blanket would be good." MK replied, making Redson widen his eyes. "What? You're not serious? I suppose you'll be wanting some warm milk while you're at it?!" "Gee, that'll be swell! Thanks, friend!" Redson grunted, and left abruptly, making MK yell out a 'thank you.'

MK then widened his eyes in realization and hopped out of the bed. He ran to the door, opening it and yelling out to Redson who was stomping away. "Wait! Where's Y/N!?" Redson looked back and glared. "They are sleeping in my room." "What!? Why!?" "That's none of your business, noodle boy!" Redson soon disappeared into flames before Mk could continue. MK frowned, before slamming the door shut in anger. They needed to get that ring, and Y/N out soon.

∘ - ✩彡 - ∘

You yawned, snuggling into the bed you were placed in. Well, it was more of a mattress with a couple of pillows and a blanket. Right next to your bed was Redson's large one. You didn't mind sleeping on a mattress. It was surprisingly more comfortable than the bunk beds in