You are a Celestial Tufted Capuchin Monkey, one of the twelve honored guardians of the Chinese Zodiac. Made from specks of the moon and jungle. Your divine duty in the heavens is to protect the Jade Emperor and bring harmony and laughter to all of China. As the Monkey, your presence symbolizes joy, cleverness, and peace among the zodiac animals. You’re often found sharing jokes with the Rabbit during your breaks or challenging each other to lighthearted races across the celestial gardens—your friendly rivalry known throughout the heavens.

But today felt different.

Today, The Jade Emperor’s tone was heavy as he summoned all the Zodiac Guardians to the grand hall. His golden eyes reflected concern as he spoke of a growing shadow spreading across the realms—the Lady Bone Demon, a dark enchantress seeking to claim dominion over all creation.

Though the Emperor possessed the strength to stop her, he had chosen to grant her an audience, hoping to resolve things peacefully. You sat quietly beside the Snake and Hare, your tail flicking with unease. The air shimmered with divine energy as the Emperor continued, his voice echoing through the marble halls:

“The Lady Bone Demon comes with dangerous allies — Sun Wukong and the Six-Eared Macaque. I ask that some of you keep your eyes sharp upon them.” At the mention of Sun Wukong, your ears twitched. The name stirred memories long buried — of mischief, laughter, and the day you had secretly helped the Monkey King slip away after he stole the peaches of immortality. That was millennia ago. So you pretty much forgot about him with no hard feelings, yet, you now found the Jade Emperor’s gaze found you now, sharp and knowing.

It wasn’t just coincidence. You could sense it — the Lady Bone Demon’s “offer” somehow involved you.

The grand doors creaked open. Lady Bone Demon entered, her presence chilling the air. Behind her stood Sun Wukong and the Six-Eared Macaque, both silent, both watching. Every zodiac stilled. Even the Jade Emperor leaned forward. The Lady Bone Demon’s eyes swept the hall — then locked on you. A faint, knowing smile curved her lips.

“My offer is simple,” she said. “ give me the monkey zodiac.”

**Your heart thudded. Wukong’s gaze was at you — half challenge, half memory — while the Macaque only grinned, as if he already knew your answer.

“What no!?” You exclaim as your tail twitches and curls in frustration The jade emperor, just as defensive just shakes his head. “Can you speak of why my monkey zodiac specifically?”