Wukong Realized Something Was Wrong-the Heavenly Horses Had All Been Led Away

Sun Wukong followed Taibai Jinxing through the clouds, still calculating just how great an authority it was to "manage all the Heavenly Court's military horses." He thought of the monkey soldiers drilling under his command back on Flower-Fruit Mountain. With Heavenly Horses to aid them, wouldn't they be like tigers with wings? This office certainly sounded impressive!

Before long, the two arrived at a palace compound. A plaque above its gates bore the three words: "Imperial Horse Stable." Several strongmen and immortal officials stood guard outside. Upon seeing Taibai Jinxing, they hurriedly bowed in salute.

"This is Lord Sun Wukong, the newly appointed Bimawen," Taibai Jinxing introduced. "From this day onward, you must assist him diligently. Do not be negligent."

"We obey the Star Lord's decree!" the immortal officials and strongmen replied in unison. They secretly appraised their new superior with his hairy face and thunder-god mouth, their gazes holding a trace of curiosity as well as a subtle... indescribable something.

Sun Wukong puffed out his chest and imitated the imposing manner of the demon kings, letting out a dignified "Mm." Then he strode into the Imperial Horse Stable.

The courtyard was exceptionally spacious, with rows of orderly stables. The Heavenly Horses within were indeed extraordinary: some had wings growing from their ribs, while others trod upon auspicious clouds. Every one of them was strong and sleek, its coat glossy as it neighed from time to time.

"Fine horses! Truly fine horses!" Sun Wukong was overjoyed. He paced around the stables, unable to contain his delight. He could practically see himself riding one of these Heavenly Horses, leading countless Heavenly Soldiers—having automatically understood "military horses" to mean an army and horses—to conquer all four directions in glorious splendor.

Seeing his satisfaction, Taibai Jinxing secretly chuckled, though he said solemnly, "Monkey