Rising Moon

Chapter 10

As Macaque stepped through the shadow portal, hand in hand with his two energetic toddlers, he couldn't help but grin at the chaos they'd just left behind. Savage's little roars, followed by the chirps at the end, had been too adorable to resist. He'd whipped out his phone in an instant to capture the moment, his heart swelling with affection for his mischievous little cubs. Rumble's more gentle approach to their toy block destruction was the perfect counterpoint to Savage's wild, stomping antics. As he sent the photos to the group chat with his sworn sisters and a special video to Sandy, Macaque couldn't help but laugh at how much they'd already taken after him. The twins may have been small, but they were full of life and already so uniquely themselves.

"Alright, little troublemakers," he said, with a playful but firm tone as they finished their play session. "Time to clean up. We're going to visit Aunt PIF!"

Savage chirped loudly, already tossing toys aside in her rush to get ready, while Rumble, ever the calmer of the two, carefully stacked the blocks back together with a soft hum. Macaque smirked, both amused and proud of his kids as they hustled to get everything in order. He wasn't sure how he'd managed to raise two very distinct personalities, but they were both perfect in their own ways.

Once they finished tidying up, Macaque gave them both a reassuring squeeze on their little hands. "You ready, my little thunder and lightning?" he asked, his voice softening with affection. They responded with matching nods, and in no time, they were all ready to step through the portal.

The Lava Palace of the Demon Bull Clan loomed ahead, its fiery glow an unmistakable symbol of strength and power. Macaque breathed in the warm, sulfurous air as they stepped out of the portal, already feeling the heat of the place. It wasn't as much a surprise as it once had been, but there was still something impressive about the grandeur of it all.

Demon Clan Lava Palace —-----------

Before they could even take a step, Princess Iron Fan appeared in a swirl of wind magic, her presence both commanding and radiant. She beamed at them, her happiness contagious. "Liu'er! I'm so glad you made it on time," she said warmly, before giving Savage and Rumble a teasing look.

The twins were already bouncing on their feet, eager to see their aunt. They chirped excitedly and rushed toward her, calling out "Aunty!" in unison as they threw themselves at her for hugs. Princess Iron Fan caught them both effortlessly, laughing as she scooped them up into her arms.

"Such troublemakers, you two," she said fondly, her voice carrying a tone of genuine affection. Despite her typically regal air, she was clearly a soft touch when it came to the little ones.

Macaque chuckled, shaking his head as he followed her into the dining hall. The familiar sound of the twin's giggles and babbling faded into the background as they settled into the lavish dining area where Demon Bull King was waiting with Red Son. The atmosphere was relaxed, yet there was a noticeable air of anticipation, as if something momentous was about to unfold.

Macaque made his way to Demon Bull King, who gave him a blunt but warm greeting.

"I appreciate you coming, Liu'er," Demon Bull King said, his deep voice resonating with authority. "Princess Iron Fan has filled me in on the situation, and I'm glad to have you here. I welcome you to my home brother, should you ever need me in battle I will gladly stand beside you"

Macaque smiled at the sentiment, his own heart warm at the familiarity. The bond between them, forged through years of conflict and camaraderie, was solid. "The feeling's mutual, brother " he replied, his voice steady but carrying an undercurrent of genuine affection. "I'll always have your back."