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Chapter Text

The flickering of a light bulb echoed in the solemn room, it being the only thing illuminating a way for Wukong to look down at the papers. He ran his fingers against his thick hair, releasing a sigh as he closed his eyes. Wukong tipped his head over, letting himself get blinded by the floating lightbulb. The loud creeking of a door screeched in Wukong’s ears, making him look back at the entrance.

A short man stood, his hair tugged into two buns with excess hair behind that was neatly combed. His frown was framed on his face, though Wukong could never recollect a moment where it wasn’t.

“You’ve been in here for a while.” Nezha said, placing his hands behind his back.

Wukong rubbed his temple, his glasses lifting and resting on his forehead. He picked up the papers again, skimming over the information.

Name: Six-Eared Macaque

Age: 33 years old

Birthday: November 14 1990

Date of Incident: August 7 2014

Offence: Physical Assault

Victim: Xiang Liu

Prison Duration: 15 years

“You wanna tell me why this case is even relevant?” Wukong hissed.

“He’s got information on another case. We were wondering if you could pull him for a chat.” Nezha inquired, making Wukong kiss his teeth.

“I’m a forensic psychologist, not a detective.”

“We both know you can do the job well enough.” Nezha said under his breath. “You don’t get much of a choice, now come on. I’m sick of waiting.”

Wukong picked up the file as he got up from the chair. He walked out, the dim light of the hallway letting his eyes rest. “What case is he connected to? And why the hell do you need me to do it?”

Nezha sighed irratedly. “You ask far too many questions.” He complained, digging his hands into his jacket pockets. “He’s connected to a guy who was affiliated with Azura Lion.”

Wukong’s heart stopped. His chest felt compressed as he slowly turned to the other man. Nezha ignored the other man’s panicked state, his tired eyes resting as he looked away.

“Even though he was only locked for assault, he’s suspected to be involved in a lot worse.”

Wukong shook his head as to stir away the shock. “Still doesn’t answer my question.”

“He has a lot wrong with him. He’s diagnosed to have conduct disorder as well as narcissistic personality disorder. Oh, and he’s a sociopath.”

“Seems like a handful.” Wukong commented, making Nezha groan.

“You have no idea.” He complained, unlocking a door with his key card.

Nezha’s eyes relaxed, he continued to look straight. “They want him to be your patient.”

Wukong’s eyes widened. “You’re fucking joking.”

“They really think this guy can give a good lead so they’re opening it again. They think you’d be essential to hold him down to get answers.”

Wukong scoffed. “Well good luck finding someone to replace me, cause I’m not doing shit.”

Nezha sighed and mumbled to himself. “That’s what I told them.”

Nezha led them to a confined room with a big metal door that towered over them. He opened it, the dark light of the room being a drastic difference to most. Wukong looked to see two men standing, their hands behind their back. He wrinkled his nose as he stepped closer. Wukong couldn’t help but notice the figure sitting in front of him.

The man was restrained by thick metal handcuffs that were tied behind a metal chair. His olive brown skin contrasted well with the white tracksuit he was wearing. Wukong let his brows raise as the man looked back at him. The man had light brown eyes, his gaze piercing Wukong’s very soul. His black hair covered his face, yet Wukong could get a glimpse of the wide smile that was spread across his face. It sent chills up his spine, ones that he haven’t felt in a very long time. Wukong glanced at Nezha, who stayed silent and left the room. Nezha closed the door behind him, making Wukong curse as he turned back to the man.

He was given a chair, in which Wukong faced directly in front of the man.

“The Six-Eared Macaque. That’s quite a name huh?”

The two men in the back were taken aback by Wukong’s approach. The man chuckled, his deep voice rumbling the room. He tilted his head, making sure to lock eyes with Wukong.

“Macaque is just fine.” He responded, spreading his knees to get more comfortable.

Wukong hummed, scratching the hair on his chin. “You have quite the profile. I’m surprised the only thing you’re locked up for is assault. Unless that’s the only thing the police caught you for.”

Macaque moved his head, trailing his eyes down Wukong’s face. “You’re a forensic psychologist, right?”

“You’re a smart cookie aren’t you?” Wukong teased, though you couldn’t exactly tell with his monotone tone.

“That doesn’t explain why you’re talking to me so casually.” Macaque pointed out, narrowing his eyes.

Wukong kept his eyes low, fixating on the paper on his lap. “It’s what I do for all my patients.” His gaze went back to the man in front of him. “So don’t think you’re special.”

Macaque didn’t say anything, simply averting his gaze as the chair below him creaked. Wukong straightened his glasses, taking another quick glance at the papers.

“I was told you knew a guy who was connected to a serial killer. You wanna tell me their name?”

“Peng. Their name was Peng.” Macaque instantly responded, making Wukong blink slowly at the sudden response.

“How do you know them?” He asked, taking a grip on his pen to take notes.

“We were never friends, but I had a few run in’s with them.”

“What happened in these run ins?” Wukong asked, making Macaque give him a knowing look.

“You’re seriously asking that?” He asked. Wukong cocked his head in confusion. “We fucked each other.”

“Oh.” Wukong responded fixing his glasses back to his nose. Macaque snickered, amused by the man’s innocence. Wukong shook his head, faltering his surprised expression.

“Were you ever able to find out what they were doing?”

Macaque shrugged. “They would never stay for too long, would just leave right after. Took a lot of phone calls as well.”

“Do you have their number?” Wukong asked. To his surprise, Macaque nodded.

“They said to call me up if I felt for anything. Obviously, haven’t been able to do that. They might’ve changed it but you could always track the previous phone calls.”

Wukong narrowed his eyes, something wasn’t making any sense. “Why are you cooperating?”

Macaque rose a brow and leaned forward. “It’s kind of obvious isn’t it?”

Wukong follows his action. “What do you mean?”

“Well.” Macaque said before putting his back against the seat. “I was told that if I said everything I know I would be let out.”

Wukong leaned to one side, taking a breath. “Is that so? You wanna tell me anything else then?” He asked, his tone almost mocking.

“There was this one time where I saw the place he met up with Azure.” Macaque said, garnering Wukong’s attention. “It was an old junk yard. I had tracked their location because I had a feeling they were in some illegal shit. When I got there it was them, Azure, and some other big guy. I actually saw the guy in prison, but he was let out before I could get his name. The junk yard actually wasn’t too far from here.”

Wukong grit his teeth, clenching onto the pen he was holding. Macaque noticed, looking back at him with a plain expression. “So, why is a forensic psychologist so interested in this? If I know anything I know that you aren’t supposed to be asking questions like these.”

“Oh yeah?” Wukong asked, his mouth itching to form a smirk. “So you would rather me ask you what is wrong with your head?”

“No of course not.” Macaque said. “You just intrigue me.”

“Can’t say I’m honoured. You do have a lot going on. I guess that’s why you have so many incidents.” Macaque stayed still, seemingly confused by Wukong’s word choice. “You know, when you used a scab to stab a prison guard. Or when you smashed a prisoners head against a pole. I mean,” Wukong spread his legs and smirked. “With those tantrums there’s gotta be something wrong with you.”

Macaque watched as Wukong’s eyes dilated, completely fixated on him. The room went still. Wukong’s change of mood had altered the entire atmosphere. Macaque would be lying if he said this man didn’t scare him shitless. He gulped, squirming in his seat as he began to grow nervous. “You’re not some ordinary psychologist, are ya?”

Wukong got up from his chair, dusting his pants. He looked back down at Macaque, a frown now replacing his past expression. “We’ll talk later.”

Wukong swung open the exit door and made his leave. Wukong ignored the stern look from Nezha and walked past him. The hallway was vacant, a bright white light beamed down on him.

He hadn’t grown used to the behavioural district of the FBI, even if it has been so long since he got the job here. Wukong tilted his head up, getting bored from staring at the ground for so long. Was he avoiding work? Absolutely. But to his credit, no one really cared what he did.

He continued to walk, no longer having a destination in mind. Wukong found himself outside, the cold air brushing past his ears. Wukong looked front to see a building across the street. He struggled and walked closer to enter. Wukong tried not to make it a habit to come here, but the vending machines happened to have way better snacks than his own. Wukong clicked a series of number as he waited for his drink to drop down.

“Wukong?”

Wukong stilled at the voice, slowly turning towards it. Tripitaka hadn’t changed much since they had last spoke. Even after all his years his dark brown eyes radiated such warmth that Wukong couldn’t help but let his hard demeanour soften. Triptaka smiled and hugged him tightly.

“It’s been too long!” He yelled, squeezing him tighter. Wukong awkwardly smiled and patted his head. Tripitaka let go, bouncing on his feet.

“I didn’t know you still worked for us!”

Wukong chuckled, rubbing his neck in discomfort. “Kind of, I work in the behavioural department now.”

Triptaka placed a hand on his hip. “Well I guess that makes sense. What do you work as?”

“Forensic Psychologist.” Wukong murmured. “What about you? I’ve never seen you around.”

“Oh I don’t work in this facility. I’m just here for a meeting. I haven’t really seen you around either. I mean, after everything happened the least you could do was at least call.”

Wukong took a step back, sighing deeply as he looked back at him. “I’m sorry, I was just going through a lot.”

Triptaka’s brows furrowed, pulling himself away from the other man. “No I’m sorry. You were going through a lot. I should be considerate of that.”

Wukong smiled widely. “It’s alright, I understand.”

“Speaking of which. I heard they’re opening the Azure case again. Apparently there’s a guy who used to know one of his associates.” Triptaka mentioned, making Wukong wince.

“Yeah, I actually just spoke with the said guy.” He mentioned, making Tripitaka gleam.

“Woah really? What’d you get out of him?”

“Sorry bud, that’s classified.” Wukong joked, making Triptaka laugh.

“I should get going though, I’ll probably get called in a bit. It was nice talking to you!”

Wukong waved, waiting for the other man to exit the hallway. His face had glowered, a frown now replacing his smile as he picked up his phone and dialled a number.

“Hey, you know how I wanted out on babysitting duty? I need you to put me back on.”

Chapter Text

Wukong didn’t expect himself to have an extensive role in the investigation. But he also didn’t expect himself to be playing babysitting duty. Wukong groaned, craning his neck as he observed the scene. A team of FBI agents had followed Macaques description and were currently stationed at the junk yard. Wukong had to credit them for taking the case so seriously. For a set of murders done over a decade ago it was being treated as if it had happened yesterday. It makes sense though. After all, it was an inside job.

Though Wukong was not blessed in investigating. Rather, he was forced to stand beside a shorter man who had a wicking smirk on his face. Wukong felt unnerved by him, he was odd that’s for sure. Wukong looked down at the man with a frown. Macaques hands were dug in his pockets, his jeans out warding as his stance had a subtle limp. Wukong’s eyes narrowed.

“Get your hands out of your pockets.” He demanded, making Macaque sneer.

“I can do whatever the hell I want.”

Wukong ignored his response and clampsed his hands over Macaques wrists. He pulled them away and dug his hands in Macaques pockets. Macaque yelped, his back arching as he Wukong’s hand in his fabric. Wukong pulled out an exacto knife, he dangled the weapon in front of Macaque.

“You really think you can try to kill me in front of federal agents just like that?” Wukong said, his tone calm yet stern.

Macaques eyes were wide, his mouth gaped as he watched in awe. He dug his hands back in his pockets with a smirk.

“You know, you’re lucky that I don’t know where you live.”

“How so?”

“Because if I did the knife would be inside your neck.”

Wukong looked down at him with his eyes narrowed. “Why would you say something like that knowing I can use it as evidence to put you back in prison?”

Macaque chuckled, leaning his body to one side. “That’s the thing. Even though you have the power to do that, I have a feeling you won’t.”

Macaque didn’t look back, walking forward to get a better look as to what the agents were investigating. Wukong snarled, catching up to walk closer.

“What exactly do you mean by that?” He asked, earning a hum from the other man.

“Exactly how it sounds.”

Wukong pulled his lips together and prepared himself to question more but was interrupted by the approaching of an agent.

“We’ve scouted the area, no defective items have been found.”

Wukong and Macaque exchanged a glance. “Have you checked the security cameras?”

The agent shook his head. “They were dismantled ages ago. This place is a dead end.”

Wukong looked down at Macaque. In which Macaque gave back a look as to question his staring. Wukong sighed as he let his body come to rest.

“So there’s no physical evidence, and there’s no camera footage. Looks like you’re going back to jail.” He said, looking down with an air of dominance that was now more evident.

Macaques eyes bulged. “You can’t do that!”

He yelled, coming in front of Wukong with his fists balled.

“You’re right, I can’t.” Wukong bent down to get to his level. “But now that the FBI knows that your alibi is a lie…”

Macaques expression was panicked. Wukong let out a snicker. He stood up straight to see his face. Macaque was now angered, coming closer to Wukong. He knew that it wouldn’t happen, realistically Macaque could still stay scotch free. But his scrunched brows and the biting of his lip made Wukong think that the teasing was all worth it.

“I’m not going back.” Macaque declared. Wukong looked down at him.

“Is that a challenge?”

Macaque growled, coming forward to grip onto Wukong’s shirt. The cotton material crinkled under his hands as Wukong’s glasses flopped to one side. The agents stopped what they were doing and stared at the two of them.

“Dr. Wukong is there a problem here?” One of them asked.

Macaques eyes never left his, his gaze hardening. He watched Wukong carefully, wondering what the other man would say. Wukong looked back at the agent.

“No, not at all.”

Macaques grip loosened, Wukong’s statement surprising him so far as to let Wukong push his hand away. Macaque looked up at the other man, scoffing to himself before walking away.

“Where do you think you’re going?”

Macaque flinched at his voice, he looked back with a frown.

“The hell do you want with me now?”

Wukong stayed calm, walking towards the other man with his hands in his pockets. “You’ve still got info we need. In fact,” Wukong took out a pair of car keys from his pockets. He clicked a button before looking back at Macaque. “We’re gonna go on a road trip.”

Macaque was not able to protest as agents entered back in their vehicles. He looked

sporadically around the area, seeing the cars leaving one by one. “Where are they going?” He asked, his tone dishevelled and his voice rushed.

Wukong couldn’t help but chuckle at his nervousness. “They’re scoping out the nearby area. However, you and I are going somewhere else.”

“And where would that be?” Macaque asked, sceptical of Wukong’s intentions.

“It’s a surprise.” Wukong said, leading them to his own car. Macaque kissed his teeth, reluctantly going in the back seat.

The two of them left the junk yard without a word. Macaque decided to be stubborn, not even letting a word come out to make sure Wukong went through an awkward car ride. He placed a hand below his chin, looking out the window aimlessly. Macaque had given up on trying to guess where they were going. It’s not like Wukong would tell him, or maybe…

Macaque looked up at the rearview mirror, only to see Wukong staring right back at him. He gulped and looked away. Macaque looked outside to a familiar sight, it was his neighborhood. He looked at Wukong with a crooked brow.

“I thought you were taking me somewhere.”

“Later.” Wukong said. “I’ll pick you up at 11:00.”

Macaque groaned and slumped in his seat. “Why the hell do we have to go so late?”

“Cause we’re going to a bar.” Wukong said before parking the car in his driveway.

Macaque wrinkled his nose. “I don’t wanna drink.”

Wukong clicked his tongue and leaned his arm on the door. “We ain’t going there to drink.”

Macaque narrowed his eyes, but brushed it off as he got out of the car. The house he had was small, but was enough for him to be far enough in society that he can live in peace and quiet. Though with Wukong knowing his address he knew that those days were over. Macaque spent his day cleaning and watching the clock hit 11:00.

He changed his clothes, nothing too dramatic, just a black polo shirt with maroon dress pants. Macaque heard a honk from outside, making him sigh and open his door to see Wukong waiting for him. He walked up to the car and sat at the passenger seat, only to see police gear. Macaque looked up to give Wukong a deadpanned look. He sighed, slamming the door closed and getting himself comfortable in the backseat.

“The fuck is this for?” Macaque asked, confused as to what Wukong was planning.

“Listening devices.” Wukong responded. “You ever heard of the velvet room?”

Macaque shook his head, Wukong let himself press on the stirring wheel. “Cops have been speculating that it’s used to launder money. And word has it that the guy you knew from prison is in charge of it.”

Macaques brows rose. “Okay, but what’s the chances that he’ll be there? Not to mention they won’t say shit to us if we don’t know them.”

Wukong looked through the rear view mirror with his cheeks risen. “That’s where you come in.” He said, making Macaque cock his head in confusion. “You explain to them that you knew the guy from prison and are an affiliate of Peng’s. That’ll let us get a peak at where they might be.”

Macaque scoffed. “Why the hell are you getting so pressed about this?” Wukong made eye contact, his gaze hardening as he looked back at the other. Macaque ignored the look and responded with his own glare. “You’re not a fucking FBI agent. Let the professionals handle this. I’d rather them than some washed up psychiatrist.”

Wukong stayed silent, noticing how Macaque didn’t dare to break away. Macaque definitely had a sense of entitlement that ticked off Wukong to no end. He took a deep breath in, the leather seat squeezing beneath him as he let out his sigh. “No one’s gonna be able to solve it like I am. So either you contribute, or get the fuck out of my car and go back to a prison cell.”

Macaque gulped, but kept a stern look on his face. He put his back to the seat and crossed his arms. Wukong took that as a sign of obedience and drove off quietly. The car ride was awkward, neither of the men making eye contact with the other. Macaque squeezed his arm, a shrilling feeling coming over him. His mind still wandered as to why Wukong was even working on this case.

“I imagine that the FBI don’t know you’re investigating this. And you’ve dragged me in to this as well. How joyful.” Wukong didn’t respond, almost ignoring Macaque’s blabbering. “You of all people should know that I’m not an empath. And I have a feeling that you aren’t one either.”

Wukong’s grip on the stirring wheel tightened. Macaque cheeks rose. “So that begs the question. Why are you doing all of this, Sun Wukong?”

The car came to an abrupt stop, making Macaque launch himself across the vehicle for not wearing a seatbelt. His face smacked against the seat as he sunk down to the floor. Macaque looked up to express his anger, but not before he heard a noise from the front.

Wukong was laughing.

Macaque stayed silent as he watched the wrinkle of Wukong’s nose and the way his voice rumbled when he smiled. Macaque gulped, he straightened himself up and coughed to get his attention. Wukong looked back, but then looked at the front and opened his door. Macaque got out of the car in a huff, flustered by what had just happened. The bar was small with purple neon lights and not even a bouncer at the door. Wukong went ahead, but not before Macaque took a hold of his wrist. Wukong looked back.

“We can’t just go in there, we’ll be killed the minute we get to the door. We need a plan.” Macaque exerted, his eyes hardening at the other man.

Wukong deeply inhaled through his nose, letting out a sigh as he wiggled his wrist out of Macaque’s grip. He rubbed his red wrist and scoffed. “Fine. What exactly did you have in mind?”

Macaque smirked. “Obeying me already? So weak willed.”

Wukong snarked and moved forward. “Narcissistic bastard.”

Macaque shrugged and smiled, knowing damn well that he was indeed a narcissist. Macaque warned Wukong to just follow his lead, that he had everything in control. Wukong found that hard to believe, but nonetheless followed his orders. With no bouncer at the front they waltzed in to see a normal looking bar. Macaque looked at Wukong with a skeptical look. He rose his feet and leaned towards Wukong.

“Are you sure we’re at the right place?” Macaque whispered to him. Wukong leaned down to whisper back.

“Don’t question me. But yes, I’m sure.”

Macaque looked back at the other, his brows furrowed and his eyes wide. Macaque was worried for them. Wukong couldn’t help but give a reassuring look. He mouthed the words, ‘ we’ll be fine ’ before heading up to the bar. Macaque followed behind and sat down, waving down the bar tender to give him a drink.

“Just put it on my bill.” Macaque said, giving Wukong a look.

“I’m not paying for that.” Wukong said accusingly.  Macaque chuckled, raising his feet to lay it on the counter.

“Come on man, relax a bit won’t ya?”

Wukong’s eyes sharpened. “This better not be your plan.”

Macaque stayed quiet, acquiring the drink from the bartender with a sly smile. A napkin was placed beside his drink, it greatly confused Wukong but not before Macaque lifted the napkin to reveal a symbol. Wukong gasped, seeing a pressed on crest that was shaped like an elephants tusks. He gave Macaque a determined look, making the other man’s smile widen as he chugged his drink.

“I thought you didn’t know about this place.” Wukong whispered, his suspicions arising of the other man.

Macaque gestured to the napkin. Wukong took a closer look to se that the napkin itself had a very peculiar design. The border around it was outed wings and the crest itself had a vague set of fangs incrusted on top of it. “This place isn’t only owned by the elephant, it’s a joint establishment with Peng and the guy you’re looking for. And since I’m under Peng’s wing, anybody who works for them knows me.”

Wukong narrowed his eyes and leaned closer to Macaque. “You sure that you two were just hooking up?”

“Of course not. We fucked sure, but we had each other’s backs. Peng was annoying sure, but we’d kill for each other.”

Macaque got off the chair with a limp, taking the napkin with him as he led Wukong to a charring door. Wukong wrinkled his nose, not pleased by what may be behind the door. Macaque opened it, the staircase decaying under their feet. Every step they took was extremely loud, almost as if it was made to alert others.

Wukong peered over to see the underground bar, and it was clearly favoured over the one upstairs. Smooth jazz played in the background, settling like a weighted blanket over the polished marble bar, adding to the warm ambience from the vacant lights. It was exquisite, like something out of a mafia film, smelling of smoke and expensive cologne.

Wukong felt out of place immediately, even if the people inside lacked the suits to show off their wealth; they all had an air of superiority, as pretentious as the crimson carpet beneath their feet. Wukong suddenly felt warmth on his palm, he looked down to see Macaque holding his hand.

Before Wukong could process the notion he was dragged to the corner of the room, a darker space that was beside the polished pool table. A woman stood by herself, holding a pipe in her hand while her arm wrapped around herself. Her long green hair was pinned back, her purple heavy makeup was set on her rested face. Her grey eyes moved to Macaque, a small smile forming on her face as she moved closer.

“The Six-Eared Macaque. I thought they hauled your ass to jail.” The woman said with a snort.

Macaque laughed along and tucked his hand in his pant pocket. “Come on, you know that it’s gonna take something bigger than metal bars from to get me away from my ways.”

The woman’s eyes moved to Wukong, causing the man to frown deeply. He reached for his belt but not before Macaque grabbed his wrist harshly.

“Ah I haven’t introduced my man for the night! This is Wukong.” Macaque introduced, making Wukong’s hand wrap around his waist.

The woman laughed, not noticing the sulking of Wukong. “Scorpion queen. Jeez Macaque you truly don’t change.”

Macaque let an ignorant grin spread across his cheeks, brushing off Wukong’s pensive glare. “You shouldn’t expect anything less. Hey I haven’t see Peng in a hot minute! Have you heard from them?”

The scorpion queen’s eyes widened. The smooth jazz simmered down as the light conversations stopped. Macaque gulped, looking around to see all eyes of the bar on him. Wukong looked down at him with a knowing look.

“Did you really have to announce it like that?”

Macaque rolled his eyes, but then noticed something even more concerning. On a blood red couch sat the very man they were looking for. The yellow tusked elephant was huge, his tusks large and intimating and him  all the more. Wukong gulped, his body impulsively pulling himself back. Macaque made his way forward, but not before Wukong took a hold his shoulder and pulled him back. Macaques body was now slightly leaning on Wukong’s chest. He looked up at him with a dangerous glare.

“The hell are you doing?” Macaque hissed.

“Do you really think I’m going to up to him? In case you don’t know I’m the guy who put him in jail in the first place, he’s going to have my head on a silver platter.”

“Well maybe you should’ve thought that before you came here in the first place. We don’t really have a lot of options in the first place. It’s either we die here or upstairs. Besides, maybe he’s friendly.”

The two men finally faced him, taking slow steps towards the yellow tusked-elephant. Macaque smiled nervously, folding his hands together as he looked down at the man.

“Hey man, been a while huh?”

Yellowtusk huffed, his breath heavy yet the silence still. He moved his eyes to Wukong, making him flinch instinctively.

“You here to arrest me?” The man finally asked, his voice deep and gravely. He took a puff from his cigar, letting out a large puff of  smoke. Wukong slouched, tucking way his nervousness to stare down at the man.

“Not with the FBI anymore.” He said, making the strangers around the room look at him. The people in the underground bar were all renowned criminals, so it was only natural that they all started to close in.

“Doesn’t change anything. I knew they would fire you after everything.” Yellowtusk said.

“So what’s the problem?” Wukong asked, his voice laced in a nervous tone.

“Well, I know you’ve still got buddies in the force.”

Wukong’s eyes narrowed. He clench his fists and took a step forward. “I don’t got anybody. I’m only here to find Peng.”

Macaque took notice of the approach that Wukong was doing and followed along. “I got out not too long ago and was wondering where he went. I thought maybe you would know.”

“I can’t help you with that.” Yellowtusk said, his voice now more lower and sorrowful. “I haven’t seen them in years.”

Macaque gulped, he certainly wasn’t expecting that. “When was the last you saw them?”

Yellowtusk moved his eyes to Wukong. “The last time I saw them was when I got arrested by him .”

The strangers began to close in, Macaque backed away nervously and looked at Wukong for assistance. “I didn’t see Peng when I took you in.” Wukong claimed.

“Peng ran away before you could take them as well.” Yellowtusk said. He looked around at the criminals surrounding the two of them, he signalled them to hold before looking back at Wukong and Macaque. “If I had to guess, they probably went looking for Azure Lion.”

Macaque scrunched his brows. “When’s the last time you saw Azure?” He asked.

“I can’t remember. Why don’t you answer that question, Sun Wukong.”

All eyes were on Wukong. The light flickered above him, the room coming down to a daunting silence. Wukong slowly looked up from the ground, his orange hair fell on his eyes. The stare he gave was spine chilling, a dark aura surrounding him as he tilted his head.

“I never got to him.” Wukong said calmly. “I’m not here for Azure. Just hear to accompany Macaque.”

Yellowtusk eyed Macaque, waiting for his answer. “Yeah I just wanted to know where Peng went. We never wanted any trouble. Their my friend too y’know.”

Wukong wrinkled his nose, suppressing a snarl as he heard Peng’s name. He didn’t even know macaque was that close to them. He’d have to do more research than he thought. Yellowtusk seemed to approve their shpeel, signalling the others to lay off the two men. The strangers around the bar began to disperse, no longer seeing Macaque and Wukong as a threat.

They both went back upstairs with a sigh of relief. The two men both climbed inside the car, tired from the near death experience. “Holy shit that was terrifying.” Macaque exclaimed, Wukong nodded in agreement.

“Didn’t give us too much info though.” Wukong complained, annoyed that they had gone there for seemingly no reason.

Macaque smirked. “You sure about that?” He asked, holding a packet of cokcaine in his hand.

Wukong gasped and tried to lower down his hand. “Put that down! Where did you even get that?”

“Turns out Scorpian Queen’s side gig is still funding her. But I don’t plan on using it, yet.”

Wukong gave an unimpressed look and crossed his arms. “Oh yeah? What are you going to use it for?”

“I’ll use it lure Peng in, though I don’t think the FBI would be too fond of this method.”

Wukong’s eyes widened, he clamped his hands over Macaques with fated breath. “Don’t tell them about this.”

Macaque stared at him oddly, surprised by the man’s sudden reaction. Wukong put his hands back, looking down as he clenched his fists. “I’m not allowed to investigate this case, if they find out I’m kicked out for good.”

“I’ll have to tell them something, they expect me to help them get the details.” Macaque warned, making Wukong sigh in defeat.

“Fine, just leave out any details about me and the,” Wukong looked at the bag of cockaine in disgust. “Substances.”

Macaque chuckled, placing the baggie in his  pocket as he folded his arms. The car felt quiet, neither men exchanging any words. Macaque looked at Wukong, only to find the man already staring. Macaque looked away, surprised that Wukong was so composed.

“Yellowtusk knows where Peng is.” Macaque announced suddenly. Wukong’s eyes widened.

“How do you know?” He asked.

“I can tell that he was lying, there’s no way Peng wouldn’t at least tell one person where they went. Besides, those two are hella close. And If Yellowtusk is here that means Peng is not far.”

Wukong stared, unblinking in astonishment. He readjusted himself and let a smirk slip past his lips. “You’re not a bad detective.”

Macaque smiled. “I learned from the best.”

Wukong placed his hand on his face, attempting to cover the smile forming on his face. He gripped onto the steering wheal as his shoulders tensed. Wukong opened his mouth as to speak something, but shut it before he could get the chance. He turned on the car without another word, leaving Macaque in quiet anticipation for his answer. He never got to find out what Wukong thought of what he said

Wukong’s posture had become progressively worse over the past couple of days. A webpage of Peng’s criminal report was open along with their last seen locations. Sneakily researching his passion project was never an overthought and consumed him like a mad man.

Wukong just wanted to get it over with.

He sighed, leaning back onto his seat which left out a squeaky sound. Wukong tipped his head back, breathing in deeply through his nose and out from his mouth as he painfully closed his eyes. His thought were exerted by the swinging of his office door. Wukong swiftly switched tabs and managed to spare a glance at the entrance.

A medium build man stood at the door, excitedly bouncing on his feet with a wide grin. The young man had freckles spread across his cheeks along with messy black hair and bright brown eyes. Mk was IT guy who often worked in his building. Mk had a kind of effect on people that made them immediately friends with them. Wukong guessed that was what happened to them because he always managed to tolerate the kid. Not many people could achieve that goal.

“Mr. Wukong! I was in the building so I thought I’d pop by. These damn computers are always broken!” Wukong hummed, vaguely acknowledging

the young man. Mk whistled, putting his hands behind his back and walking closer to Wukong. “You weren’t busy, were you?”

Mk asked, his tone now more concerned and his voice more quiet.

Wukong sighed, sitting up properly from his chair and adjusting himself. “I’m fine kid, just tired.”

“Is it cause of the Macaque guy?” Mk asked, making Wukong practically jolt up from his seat. He hadn’t expected Mk to know about Macaque, frankly he wasn’t even sure how he knew in the first place. Wukong’s calm persona began to crumble as he realized that Mk had to know about him reinvestigating the case. There was no way he didn’t. But he had to act quickly before Mk could get any more suspicious.

“So you know about him? Yeah, he’s quite a guy.” He said nonchalantly, averting his eyes to mask his jerking eyes.

“I heard from people around the building. I also heard that they let him out after he gave info on the Azure case, and that you’re in charge of him.”

Wukong groaned, rubbing his temple as his glasses tilted over. “Don’t fucking remind me.”

Mk chuckled, digging his hands into his shorts. “Hey he can’t be that bad.”

Wukong grumbled, letting his shoulders slouch and his head lean forward. “You have no idea.”

Mk’s laugh dialed down as he looked down reminiscent. Wukong seemed more tired than from before. More stern and more hardened. Mk caught eye contact with the man and gulped. For a second, and only for a second, Wukong seemed bored of his presence. It felt like Wukong was looking through him, as if he was no more significant than a fleeting shadow on the wall. Wukong’s face didn’t betray much emotion, but his eyes spoke volumes. Their emptiness carrying an edge that made Mk’s stomach twist. Mk held his head as he looked away.

“I-I’ll uhh…I’ll see you later yeah?” Mk stuttered, earning a nod from Wukong as he looked back at his computer.

Mk closed the door behind him. His knees felt weak as he covered his mouth. The action was so subtle yet it shook him to his very core. Mk tried to walk, but the feeling began to weigh on him even more as leaned heavily against the wall. He couldn’t shake the image of Wukong’s eyes off his mind. They were so hollow, so uninterested, as if Mk hadn’t mattered a thing to him at all. Mk knew that Wukong didn’t view him as a threat, rather Wukong thought that Mk was too curious for his own good. That would explain how spooked he was when Mk had first came in. Wukong is hiding something, something that he’d do anything to not be found.

Macaque had never roamed the halls of an FBI building. Sure he’s been restrained by a straight jacket to be transported to the interview room but nothing more. He had been taken here to give any more leads to detectives in which he was able to give as much as he could from the last couple of days, though subtracting the part where Wukong was involved. He was exiting the meeting and going back home. Macaque whistled as he listened to his footsteps, the clicking sound echoing throughout the hallway. He let his mind wonder, he wondered if Wukong worked at this building. There was a possibility, maybe he could pop by. Macaque stopped walking, his sudden calm expression changed into a curious one. Why would he even want to visit Wukong in the first place?

He clocked it as him being bored. Macaque confused  walking but not before stopping at a door. He heard distant talking from the other side which left him to stop. Macaque let his impulse get the better of him as he pressed his ear against the door. He couldn’t make out any words so he pressed himself even harder before the door swung open. Macaque yelped as he fell face down to the ground. He rubbed his bruised chin as he listed his head. Macaque was surprised to see not Wukong, but a short man looking down at him with wide eyes. He pulled himself back up with a groan.

“Sorry about the intrusion, I’ll be leaving now.” Macaque said casually, turning his body to walk back. He was pulled by the back of his collar as he stumbled on his feet.

“You don’t think I didn’t notice you listening onto my conversation?” The short man asked, Macaque recognized him as the same man who stood near Wukong when he first interrogated him.

Macaque looked over at the door, noticing how it was made out of a sort of opaque glass that could still outline a persons silhouette if they stood behind it. Macaque kissed his teeth.

“Fine, you caught me. I just thought you would be Wukong so I got curious.”

Nezha rose a brow. “Why would you want to listen to his conversation?” He asked.

Macaque groaned as he got up from the ground. “I don’t know okay? If you’re wondering I didn’t even get to hear anything.”

“That’s not what I’m worried for.” Nezha said calmly. “I’m worried as to what you think Wukong is hiding that you have to listen to his private conversations.”

Macaque kissed his teeth. “Mind your own business. I barely know the guy enough to be thinking about what he’s hiding. I was just curious as to what he might be talking about.”

Nexha narrowed his brows. Macaque was lying, painfully so. “So you see him as an open book?” He asked.

“I wouldn’t exactly say that. He does keep to himself a lot. He has this sort of superficial charm. It’s the kind that I can’t help but want rip off. The relationship he has with me lacks depth or any genuine emotional connection. And yeah sure we’re not required to be best buds but it’s more than that. God I just…I can’t figure him out.”

When Macaque stopped speaking Nezha let out a tired sigh. “Macaque,” he began, his voice steady, though there was a sharpness to it that made Macaque’s fur bristle, “I’ve known Sun Wukong for a very long time. And even at that it took me a very long time to notice those behaviours. His symptoms must’ve gotten worse than from before.”

Macaque stiffened, his tail swaying uneasily.  “What the hell is that supposed to mean?”

“So you weren’t already warned? You may not know, but he used to be a FBI agent, just like me. But after the Azure case, tests were run on him and we were able to find a discovery that made everything make a lot more sense.” Nezha’s jaw tightened, his eyes hardening with a mix of regret and bitter understanding. “His thoughts had became manic, calculated yet impulsive. Wukong isn’t an ordinary man. No, he’s a medically acclaimed psychopath .”