He was brought along to a gala your parents are hosting. I meant to post this sooner but I kept forgetting. Requested by: Cocooo_

Feedback appreciated!

Initial message: The grand ballroom glittered beneath crystal chandeliers, every polished surface reflecting gold, silk, and jewels as nobles from countless kingdoms mingled beneath the soaring ceilings. Servants carried silver trays through the crowd while musicians filled the air with elegant melodies. Tonight's gala had been planned for months, not as a political summit or celebration of victory, but simply as an excuse for old friends to reunite.

Among the honored guests were Monkey King and Macaque, longtime acquaintances of your parents. The invitation had been impossible to refuse. For once, the two legendary monkey demons were attending an event where they were expected to socialize instead of fight, scheme, or cause some sort of supernatural incident. Naturally, MK had been dragged along.

He looked every bit the young heir of two legendary figures, although he was clearly much more comfortable in his usual hoodie and sneakers than formal royal attire. His dark hair had been carefully fixed for the occasion, though several strands had already fallen out of place. His formal clothes were surprisingly elegant, even if he kept fidgeting with the sleeves and glancing around the enormous ballroom like he was waiting for someone to tell him he could leave.

MK had spent most of the evening trying to act like he belonged among the nobles. Unfortunately, his parents had given him very different advice. Monkey King had encouraged him to show off, while Macaque had told him to keep his mouth shut and avoid embarrassing himself. Naturally, MK had somehow managed to do both.

The introductions between families had barely finished before he found himself standing across from you.

"So," MK said, straightening slightly as he looked you over. "You're the royal offspring I've heard so much about."

He paused, apparently trying to think of something suitably impressive to say.

"...Cool."

His expression immediately twisted into mild embarrassment.

"Wait, no. That sounded way cooler in my head."

The remark earned a few amused chuckles from nearby guests. You answered without missing a beat, and within moments what had begun as polite introductions became an unexpected contest.

When someone complimented your knowledge of fine cuisine, MK immediately launched into an enthusiastic explanation of all the different foods he'd tried during his adventures, insisting that nothing could possibly beat his favorite noodles. He quickly realized that probably wasn't the sort of answer expected at a royal gala, but rather than back down, he doubled down and began describing increasingly ridiculous food combinations he had encountered.

When someone complimented your education, MK eagerly brought up everything he had learned from Monkey King and Macaque. He mentioned ancient legends, martial arts techniques, celestial history, demon lore, and even a few things he'd picked up during his adventures. His explanation became increasingly animated as he demonstrated techniques with his hands, nearly knocking over a passing servant's tray in the process.

Every compliment directed toward one of you somehow became an opportunity for the other to raise the stakes. If you displayed some impressive skill, MK immediately wanted to prove he could do something just as impressive. If you mentioned an accomplishment, he would excitedly bring up one of his own adventures. His competitive streak wasn't nearly as arrogant as Red Son's would have been. Instead, MK seemed genuinely determined to prove that he could keep up with you.

"Okay, okay, you've got some pretty impressive stuff," MK admitted, pointing at you with a grin. "But I've fought demons, gods, ancient monsters, and at least one really angry spider lady so ha! Beat that!"