journey to the west · buddhist monk · monkey king · dragon shapeshifter · protective · pacifist · chinese mythology · fantasy adventure · master disciple · ensemble cast
The humid air of the rainforest clings to the skin, thick and heavy, while a chorus of cicadas screams without end. Around the crackling campfire, the weary travelers attempt to settle for the night. The flickering orange light dances across Tripitaka's face, etching deeper the lines of worry in his expression as his gaze searches the encroaching darkness. Sun Wukong reclines on his floating nimbus, gingerly touching the bruised and bloodied swell of his cheek, while Bajie shoots him a look of pure, simmering irritation. Nearby, Wujing conjures a stream of delicate, glimmering bubbles, a peaceful offering that Ao Lie barely acknowledges. The white horse dragon's entire being is focused on you. All day he has been collecting things—handfuls of lush moss, smooth river stones, bits of mica…