Macaque/History

*Note: Due to Monkie Kid not being a direct representation to Journey to the West, this article will be primarily about Macaque's history within Monkie Kid. For information about him in Journey to the West, click here.*

## Past

### Early life

Macaque once lived in Flower Fruit Mountain with Monkey King. Because of his fear of death, Monkey King occasionally caused trouble in search for power and immortality, something Macaque was cautious about as he tried to convince Monkey King to stop.

Along with Monkey King, Macaque forged a bond of brotherhood with the Demon Bull King, Azure Lion, Peng, and Yellowtusk. During a feast with the Brotherhood, Monkey King recounted his Havoc in Heaven. Macaque, concerned about the Brotherhood's plan to launch an assault on the Celestial Realm and claim the Jade Emperor title, attempted to caution Monkey King against taking things too far. However, his words were interrupted by Monkey King's continued mockery of the Jade Emperor.

As the Brotherhood deliberated on the rightful claimant to the title of Jade Emperor, Macaque attentively listened to Azure Lion's persuasive argument in favor of Monkey King's candidacy. The discourse left Macaque feeling uneasy. However, Monkey King reassured him that they would soon accomplish their mission and return to Flower Fruit Mountain to fulfill their promise of spending a lifetime together.

### Feud with Monkey King

Macaque fought the Celestial Armies with Monkey King as the Brotherhood intend to overthrow the Jade Emperor. However, they lost as Monkey King surrendered. After the battle, Macaque learned that Monkey King was imprisoned inside of Five Phases Mountain. He tried cheering him up by bringing a peach, but Monkey King started taking out his anger on Macaque. The argument eventually led to Monkey King accusing Macaque that he always abandon others. Macaque retorted that Monkey King was the one that leaves people behind when searching for immortality and power. Macaque then told Monkey King that it was his own fault he was trapped, and left, leaving him alone.

Macaque met up with the remainder of the Brotherhood as they discussed about Monkey King, who was said to be in league with the Jade Emperor at the time. As Peng accused Monkey King of being a traitor, Macaque tried to tell them that they shouldn't get hasty.

At some point after Monkey King became a disciple for Tang Sanzang, Macaque grew more bitter toward the Monkey King, believing that he was forgotten by him. Eventually, Macaque engaged in a battle with the Monkey King and was defeated and killed, leaving his spirit to be trapped to suffer forever in the Underworld. A demon named the Lady Bone Demon saved him from the Underworld in exchange for him freeing her from an ancient tomb, which Lady Bone Demon would be locked away in. Once he was given the Skeleton Key and resurrected to life, Macaque threw it away and sought out the Monkey King to enact his revenge instead.

## Season 1

### Macaque

Believing Macaque to be Monkey King, MK was in awe after witnessing Macaque's incredible feat in beating the Smoke Monster. However, his excitement quickly turned to awkwardness when he realized that Macaque was not actually Monkey King. Macaque, used to the confusion, correctly identified MK as the Monkie Kid due to the Golden Staff. Macaque introduced himself and bid farewell to MK. MK, eager to learn Macaque's impressive skills, asked for his guidance. Macaque questioned MK's need for another teacher, considering that Monkey King was already training him. MK, wanting to please Macaque, assured him that Monkey King would be fine with it. Macaque agreed, but as he touched MK's back, he changed the monkey symbol on MK's jacket to his insignia.

In his lair, Macaque voiced his dissatisfaction with MK's skills, expecting more from someone of his caliber. MK, however, assured Macaque that he could do better. Accepting the challenge, Macaque urged MK to abandon any notion of being nice and to unleash his full force in each attack. He reminded MK that he was not reliant on a weapon, but rather, he himself was the weapon. Soon, Macaque informed MK that he is ready to stop the Smoke Monaster. Macaque took MK to Warrior Mountain, stressing the importance of the Smoke Monster as a powerful and ancient demon. MK doubted his abilities, remembering past struggle to even approach it. Macaque acknowledged this but highlighted the progress made under his guidance, which made MK stronger. Despite his hesitation, Macaque reminded MK of his role as the weapon and urged him to give his all.

As MK lunged toward the Smoke Monster, he discovered that it was an extension of Macaque. The Smoke Monster retaliated by striking MK, thereby robbing him of his powers. Macaque, holding a stone in his hand, absorbed MK's powers, causing the staff to launch towards MK and pin him to the mountain. Macaque expressed gratitude for acquiring all of Monkey King's power, but noticed that MK was no longer able to hold the Golden Staff. Consequently, Macaque concluded that MK was just an ordinary child with a stick and nothing special about him. However, Monkey King knocked Macaque back, and Macaque greeted him with sarcasam. Monkey King questioned if Macaque will ever tire of living in his shadow and demanded that he return MK's powers. Macaque sarcastically complimented Monkey King and expressed his satisfaction in killing him with his own powers. The two engaged in a fight, summoning their clones and transforming into various animals. Macaque took on MK's form, causing Monkey King to hesitate. Macaque's Shadow Monkeys pin Monkey King, and Macaque taunted him for falling into the trap. Apologizing to MK, Macaque conjured the Smoke Monster again, preparing to deliver the final blow. As the Monkey King intercepted the attack, Macaque brazenly jeered him, challenging him to reveal his true self. Macaque belittled Monkey King's hesitation in protecting a child, deeming it pitiful. Meanwhile, with an overwhelming surge of strength, MK lifted the Golden Staff, thereby reclaiming his powers. Subsequently, he forcefully hurled the staff towards Macaque and the Smoke Monster, defeating them.

## Season 2

### Shadow Play

Disguised as a puppeteer, Macaque narrated the tale of *The Hero and the Warrior*, which alluded to his past friendship with Monkey King before their enmity. He greeted the citizens and commenced his storytelling. In MK's absence, Macaque ensnared Pigsy, Tang, and Mei inside his magic lantern.

Macaque, still disguised as the puppeteer, met up with MK. Curious, Macaque questioned why MK is still around even though the play has already ended. MK was interested in knowing what happened to the Warrior. In a playful manner, Macaque jokingly asked MK if he wanted to hear that the Hero and the Warrior became friends again. MK disagreed, but admitted that he saw a part of himself in the Warrior. Macaque took that as a compliment and explained that it was a sign of a good story when someone could personally relate to it. However, Macaque pointed out that MK is missing was main point, but MK interruptted him. MK started to wonder if Monkey King made a mistake in choosing him as his successor. Seizing the opportunity, Macaque, disguised as Monkey King, challenged MK's doubts and asked what if Monkey King did indeed make a mistake. Believing this, MK became frustrated and confessed to Macaque that has been struggling to believe in himself as instructed by Monkey King. MK admitted feeling helpless and unprepared to face Lady Bone Demon alone. Macaque, finding amusement in MK's frustration, laughed and provoked MK to try and punch him, which Macaque effortlessly catched. Finally, Macaque revealed his true identity. MK was taken aback by Macaque's presence and Macaque reassured him that there was no shame in sharing his insecurities. Macaque admitted that he didn't usually talk about his own problems but thought it might be helpful for him. In his frustration, MK attempted to punch Macaque, but Macaque swiftly caught his other hand. Macaque urged MK to calm down and reminded him that he was only checking in on his student. MK vehemently denied being Macaque's student, but Macaque explained that since Monkey King was away, he felt responsible for teaching MK a lesson. Macaque pointed out that MK had misunderstood his role as the Warrior. He compared MK to the Hero, who had everything handed to him and didn't appreciate the Warrior and his other friends once he gained power. MK denied being like that, but Macaque summoned the shadows of Mei, Pigsy, and Tang from within a lantern. Macaque sarcastically remarked that it was a classic hero maneuver to overlook the well-being of their companions. As the shadows began to attack MK, Macaque questioned how MK hadn't recognized him earlier since shadows were his signature trick. MK managed to break free from his restraints and lunged at Macaque with the Golden Staff. However, Macaque was quick to react and blocked the attack with his bare hand. Macaque couldn't help but notice the similarities between MK and Monkey King, and saw potential in the former. Macaque shattered the lantern, freeing Pigsy, Tang, and Mei from their imprisonment. Macaque then exited the shadow play.

Macaque admitted that he initially planned to watch MK suffer from his own mistakes, but decided against it since MK was already struggling. Macaque praised MK for being a good kid, but criticized Monkey King. MK suspected that Monkey King was the Hero, while Macaque was the Warrior. Macaque confirmed this and warned MK that something was coming that he's not prepared for. However, he assured MK that he would be there, reminding him that it was possible to have more than one teacher.

Macaque returned to the shadow play, fixing the lantern. The Mayor clapped from behind, praising Macaque's performance. Macaque thanked the Mayor and mentioned that it was his last show before departing. Unexpectedly, the Mayor grabbed Macaque's throat, choking him. The Mayor disclosed that Lady Bone Demon wished to speak with Macaque and demanded the lantern from him to create the bone mech.

## Season 3

### The Winning Side (flashback)

The Mayor had given Macaque to Lady Bone Demon, who had taken control of Megapolis and claimed ownership of the Golden Staff. Macaque tried to negotiate with her, but Lady Bone Demon accused him of being disloyal and reminded him of the favor she had done for him, as well as how he had defied his destiny. To prove himself, Macaque was given a silver compass and offered a chance at redemption if he could hand over Monkey King and MK. Despite his uncertainties, Macaque agreed to the proposition, only to be swiftly reminded of Lady Bone Demon's power when chains emerged and pulled him down. He was warned that if he failed her, he would face personal destruction.

### On the Run

Piloting his jet flyer, Macaque attacked Monkey King and the Monkie Kids during their Journey to the West, shooting the Team Dronecopter as he mentioned MK and Monkey King's confrontation with Lady Bone Demon, revealing to the two that he's working for her. Macaque went to the deck to fight Monkey King until MK tried to stop him, but Macaque grabbed him and summoned the Shadow Monkeys to hold Monkey King hostage.

Seeing why Lady Bone Demon needed MK and Monkey King, Macaque attempts to slam MK into the ground, only to be halted by Mei. Macaque taunted Mei by saying that her attacks won't do anything harmful to him. But MK, who got an idea to stop Macaque, threw a piece of metal at one of the drone's propellers, causing Macaque to fall off the Team Dronecopter as it tilted.

### Great Grand Dragon of the East

Accompanied by the Smoke Monster and the Shadow Monkeys, Macaque journeyed to the East Sea. The Dragon of the East attempted to impede Macaque's progress as Monkey King and the Monkie Kids made their escape from the palace. Despite being informed that he was not welcome at the Dragon Palace, Macaque declared to Ao Guang that he doesn't have what it takes to defeat him before going off to fight him.

### Benched

The Monkie Kids were discussing their strategy to defeat Lady Bone Demon using the Samadhi Fire when Macaque overheard them. The plan intrigued Macaque as he remembered Lady Bone Demon's warning to him. Despite this, Macaque made the decision to take the Samadhi Fire for himself in order to break free from Lady Bone Demon's grasp.

Macaque was surprised by Tang's bravery and complimented him for having more courage than expected. Macaque found it amusing that he had initially underestimated him and believed that if anyone knew the whereabouts of the Samadhi Fire, it would be Tang, while the others were enjoying themselves. Tang tried to reason with Macaque, emphasizing the importance of the Samadhi Fire in defeating Lady Bone Demon. He believed that by working together, they could have a better chance at success. In response to Tang's plea, Macaque dismissed the idea of standing together. He questioned Tang's contribution to the Monkie Kids, suggesting that they were doing just fine without him. Macaque didn't mean it as a personal attack, but rather as an observation of how Monkey King valued people based on their usefulness. Drawing from his own experience, Macaque warned Tang about the consequences of getting too close to Monkey King. He believed that in order to survive and thrive, one must prioritize their own well-being because no one else will do it for them. After hearing Tang's belief that being with his friends is more important than being alone, Macaque's ears were in pain as Pigsy began to sing. He tried to attack Tang, but the latter used his powers to create a force field around him. As Tang left with the orange ring, Macaque was electrocuted by the lantern.

As time passed, Macaque was met up with the Lady Bone Demon, who prepared to finish off the Monkey Demon for his failure. Macaque informed Lady Bone Demon that the Monkie Kids had obtained the Samadhi Fire as he tried to break free from the chains. Macaque was then given another chance by Lady Bone Demon as the latter bestowed him her crystal powers.

### The King, the Prince, and the Shadow

Macaque used his Bone Demon powers to immobilize both Ne Zha and Monkey King. Despite being mocked by Monkey King for his abilities, Macaque remained unfazed. He swiftly seized the rings from Ne Zha's hands, disregarding the Monkey King's sarcastic suggestion to monologue before heading to the Lady Bone Demon. He then proceeded to crystallize and destroy the rings, exposing them as mere replicas made from Monkey King's hair. The revelation brought Macaque satisfaction as he realized that the genuine rings were actually in the possession of the Monkie Kids. As Macaque got ready to depart Monkey King desperately tried to stop him. Monkey King issued a threat, but Macaque interrupted him, raising doubts about whether his actions would worsen the situation for MK. Unperturbed, Macaque swiftly head towards the mystic mountain.

After reaching mountain, Macaque used his powers to freeze the entire area, trapping Pigsy and Sandy in crystal. Macaque then confronted MK, pointing out that he lacked any interest in wasting any time on him. MK transformed into a gorilla, forcefully striking the mech's arm and destroying it. Macaque effortlessly reformed the arm and seized MK. Macaque mocked Monkey King's supposed grand plan. Macaque forcefully slammed MK into the ground, repeatedly injuring him, all the while emphasizing his point. He couldn't understand how they could remain oblivious to the fact that Monkey King had absolutely no clue what he was doing. Macaque then demanded MK to stay down, or he would make him. Mei's excruciating pain prompted Macaque to offer the team two choices. The first option was to surrender the Samadhi Fire and simply listen to him. Alternatively, the second option involved eliminating the team, beginning with Mei, who was being held captive by Macaque. Tang pleaded with Macaque to reconsider his actions. But Macaque demanded Tang's compliance, emphasizing that Mei's life hung in the balance.

## Embrace Your Destiny

### The Corrupted King

Macaque created a shadow portal in order to save MK from the corrupted Monkey King. He later presented a beaten up Mayor to the Monkie Kids.

### Time to Be Warriors

Despite turning the Mayor in, Macaque was tied up by the Monkie Kids. As the Mayor gloated on Lady Bone Demon's victory, Macaque explains that as long as Lady Bone Demon controls Monkey King, she can still be defeated. As the Monkie Kids listened to Macaque's explanation, Macaque became involved in MK's plan to defeat the Lady Bone Demon by stalling Monkey King. Macaque initially doubted his ability to contribute, feeling he lacked the qualities of a hero. However, MK encouraged him to embrace his warrior spirit. Convinced, Macaque freed himself from the ropes that tied him up, revealing to the others that he could escape at any time.

Macaque joined the Monkie Kids and Red Son as they used the T.E.A. to drive to Lady Bone Demon's tower. As they went, Macaque explained that the Golden Staff was being kept at the top of Lady Bone Demon's tower. As they got closer, Macaque went with MK as they flew to the top of the tower in their eagle forms. Macaque and MK were met with Lady Bone Demon and the corrupted Monkey King. Macaque nonchalantly told Lady Bone Demon they came to stop her plans to destroy the world, but hearing from the Bone Demon that nothing can change destiny, Macaque knew she would say something like that.

### Destiny Fulfilled

Macaque leapt in front of MK, successfully holding off Monkey King's punch. Despite struggling, Macaque warned MK of the gravity of the situation, hoping that the Golden Staff was worth the effort. Macaque engaged in a battle with Monkey King, during which the former created his mech to counteract Monkey King's lasers. However, Macaque was defeated, being thrown to the bone mech. Following Monkey King's release from Lady Bone Demon's influence, Macaque informed MK and Monkey King that Lady Bone Demon now has access to the bone mech, as Monkey King was no longer under her control. Upon Lady Bone Demon's release of the little girl from her possession, Macaque retrieved and transported her to a secure location as Monkey King and the Monkie Kids evaded the bone mech.

Macaque watched MK approaching the bone mech and utilized the Monkey Mech to intercept the bone mech's attack, leaving Macaque astonished. The Monkie Kids have contributed their energy to the Monkey Mech, and both Macaque and Monkey King have concurred with the decision to help out. With the Golden Staff now enlarged, Macaque and the rest proceeded to plunge it into the bone mech, destroying it and ultimately defeating Lady Bone Demon.

Following the battle, Macaque approached MK and inquired about his meal. With confidence, Monkey King asserted his claim to the bowl, stating that it was meant for him as he was MK's mentor. Macaque criticized Monkey King for his self-centered behavior, but Monkey King quickly retorted by reminding Macaque of his actions that had nearly resulted in everyone getting killed. MK highlighted their similarities, which both Monkey King and Macaque refuted. Macaque then mentioned his intention to engage in some strategic planning and took leave of MK as he vanished through a portal. As Macaque opened an order of noodles he got from MK, he was also given a drawing of himself, MK, Mei, and Monkey King.

## Season 4

### Roast of the Monkie Kids

As MK contemplated whether Monkey King had ever felt the same sense of isolation, Macaque suggested that Monkey King was simply giving in to his inherent laziness, without any consideration for others. When MK transformed into his Mystic Monkey form, Macaque was left stunned as he took on his new form. Despite Macaque's efforts to uplift MK's spirits by complimenting his tail, MK remained disheartened. Knowing there was a need for a more impactful approach, Macaque informed MK of something he would be able to show.

### The Jade Emperor

Macaque introduced MK to a VR video game that he created to improve comprehension by removing distractions from Azure and Lady Bone Demon. Furthermore, Macaque emphasized the extensive time and effort he had put into developing the game.

Over time, MK began to question the underlying purpose of the game, as it consistently convinced him that he was destined to become evil. In response to his concerns, Macaque clarified that the game was intentionally designed in that manner. Its purpose was not to control MK's fate, but rather to illustrate that life itself was not predetermined, much like a game. Macaque emphasized the significance of making independent choices and explained that opting to confront Azure may result in harm to others, while refraining from fighting him also carried negative consequences. Therefore, Macaque suggested exploring alternative options and reminded MK that he alone had the power to shape his own identity.

Macaque remained near Monkey King's house when the Monkie Kids and Ne Zha arrived, having escaped Azure Lion in the Celestial Realm. Suddenly, Macaque, MK, and Ne Zha learned about the Jade Emperor's demise.

## The Emperor's Wrath

### A Lifetime of Mistakes

“*Yeah, if he's lost in broken memories from his past, then who better to tag along than someone who was there for some of it? And besides, your knowledge of the Journey to the West seems pretty selective.*”
―Macaque

Macaque accompanied the Monkie Kids and Ne Zha in their efforts to free Monkey King from the Scroll of Memory. Given his significant involvement in Monkey King's past, Macaque deemed it necessary to join MK in the mission to rescue Monkey King. Macaque also raised concerns regarding MK's limited understanding of the *Journey to the West*. Although initially feeling offended, MK recognized the accuracy of Macaque's observation. Tang, utilizing his powers, facilitated the transportation of both MK and Macaque into the bamboo plank. As they were inside, MK and Macaque stood before the entrance to the Shuilian Cave, which appeared to be on the brink of destruction. Macaque questioned Monkey King's actions. They soon realized that Monkey King was tearing through the memories to find MK. Monkey King's urgency to locate MK was emphasized by Macaque, who suggested that they needed to find Monkey King quickly.

   As they were about to leave, MK abruptly pointed out that he had already found Monkey King. Macaque clarified that it was merely a broken memory. They encountered a monkey who wanted MK and Macaque to go through the waterfall. When Macaque asked MK if he was prepared to become the King of the Monkeys, MK appeared perplexed by the question. Macaque explained that Monkey King had become the King of the Monkeys after leaping through the waterfall, and soon advised MK to read the book to gain a better understanding. Macaque then grabbed MK and they through the waterfall, transporting them to another memory.

Upon arriving in Chang'an, Macaque encountered another monkey and inquired about the number of monkeys trapped in the scroll. MK then saw Monkey King telling the villagers about his ability to speak human. But Macaque dismissed the claim as another memory. As went into another memory, Macaque and MK stood in the Temple of the Tilted Moon and Three Stars. MK expressed his admiration for the Monkey King's playful nature. However, Macaque reminded him that they're only at the beginning of book and urged MK to read the book to fully understand the complexities of Monkey King's character. A crack appeared right next to them, and they found themselves transported to a beach as they went through.

    MK and Macaque observed Monkey King and memory Macaque when the latter was addressed as "Bud" by the former. MK found the nickname amusing and laughed. In response, one of the monkeys changed Macaque's facial expression into a smile. MK asked as to why Monkey King did not cease his pursuit of strength, given that he had already surpassed any practical need for it. Macaque responded that Monkey King was driven by an insatiable desire to become immortal, mentioning that his fear of mortality was so great that he even removed his name from the Book of the Dead.

Macaque and MK were then met with the sight of Monkey King's imprisonment in Five Phases Mountain. They observed argument between Monkey King and memory Macaque, while Macaque was consumed by feelings of regret. After the argument ended, Macaque explained that he had previously held a negative perception of Monkey King. However, upon learning of Monkey King's loyalty to Tang Sanzang, Macaque's opinion of him changed. Despite this, Macaque also disclosed that the journey had resulted in significant negative consequences. When MK inquired about the cause of the rivalry between Macaque and Monkey King, Macaque chose not to respond and instead departed through a portal, much to MK's frustration. When they arrival at Camel Ridge, Macaque told MK the origin of the wasteland, saying that Azure Lion had created Camel Ridge by siphoning energy from the surrounding region. Despite MK's belief that Azure had intended to act as a hero, Macaque clarified that people often view themselves as the hero in their own story, and that Azure possessed a talent for convincing others of his virtuous intentions, even managing to deceive himself.

     A crack soon appears before them, and Macaque realized that it leads to the real Monkey King. They both approach and witness the Monkey King's presence with his memories. Macaque and the monkeys watched as MK and Monkey King were talking about the latter's desire for immortality. During the exchange, Macaque saw a memory of Monkey King presenting a peach. He attempted to seize the fruit, but instead witnessed a recollection of himself obtaining the peach as he sat with Monkey King. Macaque then walked over and positioned himself beside MK and Monkey King. Upon MK's request for assistance in defeating Azure, he implored Monkey King to assume the role of the Monkey King. In response, Monkey King turned to Macaque, who offered a subtle smile.

### Rip and Tear

During the battle, Macaque evaded Peng's attacks while simultaneously endeavoring to strike back with his staff. Peng inquired about the possibility of Monkey King doing something to prevent Macaque from pursuing him, to which Macaque candidly revealed his deep-seated animosity towards Peng. Following the creation of a shadow portal by Macaque, Mei emerged from it and promptly launched an assault on Peng utilizing the Dragon Blade. The trio subsequently witnessed MK's metamorphosis into his Mystic Monkey form and engaged in a confrontation against Azure Lion as the universe teetered on the brink of destruction.

### Better Than We Found It

In the face of an impending universal catastrophe, Macaque and Mei received a crucial piece of advice from Peng: no one should be the last to retreat in battle, which Peng referred to it as a party. Mei reacted with anger towards Peng, while Macaque chose to let Peng go, citing their tendency towards cowardice. As Macaque turned to walk away, however, Peng charged towards him. In response, Macaque summoned the intimidating Smoke Monster, causing Peng to flee. Macaque suggested regrouping with the others, and Mei utilized her powerful Dracokinesis to transport him back to the Shuilian Cave.

After the battle had ended, Macaque went to the Monkie Kids' beach party, even though he wasn't invited. However, upon his arrival, he intentionally blocked the sun, prompting a humorous response from Monkey King. Despite the initial exchange, Monkey King extended a popsicle to Macaque, which he accepted. During their conversation, Macaque expressed his concern over the impending doom of the universe, to which Monkey King acknowledged but reassured him that they could handle whatever was to come. Macaque was taken aback when Monkey King referred to them as a team, including him in his plans by using the word "we".

## References

1. ↑ Adams, Jeremy (May 16, 2021). It is not a direct 1:1 representation to JTW by design. It gives us more freedom with stories and characters and hopefully points people to search and experience JTW themselves (Reply). Archived from the original on August 28, 2022.
2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 Breen, David. "A Lifetime of Mistakes". *Monkie Kid*. Season 4. Episode 45.
3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 Breen, David. "New Adventures". *Monkie Kid*. Season 4. Episode 36.
4. ↑ Breen, David. "The Brotherhood". *Monkie Kid*. Season 4. Episode 42.
5. ↑ Devlin, Deirdre. "Court of the Yellow Robed Demon". *Monkie Kid*. Season 4. Episode 39.
6. ↑ Fitzmartin, Meghan. "Shadow Play". *Monkie Kid*. Season 2. Episode 17.
7. ↑ Adams, Jeremy; Kai, Yin. "The Winning Side". *Monkie Kid*. Season 3. Episode 24.