| This article is about the character. You may be looking for the set. |
- Note: Due to Monkie Kid not being a direct representation to Journey to the West,[1] this article will be primarily about Azure Lion's appearance within Monkie Kid. For information about him in Journey to the West, click here.
| “I only bear fangs to those that would bear theirs to my own. Your family doesn't understand. We are brothers. It was our dream to conquer the Celestial Realm together.” |
| — The Azure Lion[src] |
The Azure Lion was a demon, and one of the former sworn brothers of Monkey King, whose main goal was to bring peace to the mortal realm by killing the Jade Emperor. Years after his cause was ruined by his fail attempt to take over the Celestial Realm, Azure Lion searched for the Scroll of Memory before the Ink Demons could succumb to the mortal realm, aiding MK and Mei as they rescued their friends and destroy the Scroll of Memory's protective curse. Following the destruction of the scroll's curse, Azure Lion betrayed the two, using the Scroll of Memory to free his sworn brothers and stage another assault on the Celestial Realm.
Azure Lion's underestimation of the Jade Emperor's power and hasty attempt to take control resulted in him struggling to manage the overwhelming power. Determined to eliminate Monkey King, Azure became overwhelmed by the power and eventually realized that his cause had been manipulated to destroy the universe. Azure later sacrificed himself to save the universe.
Official description
LEGO.com descriptionCharming and ruthless, Azure is a power-hungry villain who's convinced he's a hero.[6] LEGO® BuilderLearn even more about the original Chinese legend when you join Monkie Kid, Monkey King and Pigsy to confront the Azure Lion’s powerful mech. Help Pigsy search for his ancestral weapon - but watch out! The Azure Lion is transforming into a new version of itself to get in the way. Dodge the sword and stud-shooting scroll the mech uses as you recover Pigsy’s weapon. Don’t forget the scroll! |
History
Past
Seeing the Mortal Realm and its people suffer, Azure Lion served the Jade Emperor as a Celestial Warrior to protect them.[2] He encountered two other demons, Peng and Yellowtusk, and their friendship blossomed over a delightful feast.[7] However, as time passed, Azure realized that the Jade Emperor's sole concern was maintaining control over his subjects, disregarding their hardships. Azure departed from the Celestial Realm and stumbled upon Flower Fruit Mountain, where he discovered Monkey King. Impressed by the Monkey King's compassion towards the monkeys and the prosperity of his home, Azure Lion recognized him as a warrior who shared his ideals. Eventually, Azure Lion formed a bond of brotherhood with Monkey King, the Demon Bull King, Macaque, Peng, and Yellowtusk.[2]
During a feast with his sworn brothers, Azure Lion attentively listened to Monkey King's story about the Havoc in Heaven. As they discussed their plans to overthrow the Jade Emperor and seize his throne, the Brotherhood praised Azure Lion, suggesting he would make an ideal leader. However, Azure Lion humbly acknowledged that it was Monkey King who had brought them together and inspired them to take a stand against the Jade Emperor. Recognizing Monkey King's courage and leadership, Azure Lion proposed him as the most suitable candidate to lead their conquest against the Jade Emperor and stand up for what's right.[3]
Assault on the Celestial Realm
During the battle for the Celestial Realm, Azure Lion and his sworn brothers fought valiantly, almost securing victory. However, their hopes were dashed when the Jade Emperor intervened, leading to their defeat and the surrender of the Monkey King. In the aftermath, only Azure Lion, Peng, and Yellowtusk remained as sworn brothers.[2] Determined to establish a home, they created Camel Ridge by stealing surrounding energy.[8] After aligning himself with the Jade Emperor, Monkey King's loyalty became uncertain to Azure and the Brotherhood, given his unpredictable nature. Yellowtusk turned to Azure Lion for guidance, but received no response.[9]
Imprisonment
The Brotherhood and the pilgrims eventually had a conflict, resulting in the Brotherhood being imprisoned by the Monkey King using the Scroll of Memory. Azure was eventually freed by the Nine-Headed Demon, unaware of the being's true reason for freeing him.[10] Azure resolved to liberate Peng and Yellowtusk from the Scroll of Memory. Unfortunately, the protective curse that had been bound to the scroll rendered his efforts futile. Undeterred, Azure devised a strategy to deceive MK and ultimately eradicate the curse on his behalf.[2]
New Adventures
When MK and Mei were in trouble, Azure Lion destroyed the Ink Demons versions of the pilgrims. Soon, Ink Peng and Ink Yellowtusk emerged. They lamented their downfall, reminding Azure Lion of his promise to protect the world. With humility, Azure Lion sought forgiveness from his true sworn brothers and eradicated the Ink Demons. Nevertheless, after sealing the Scroll of Memory, MK and Mei attacked him and seized the artifact. Azure Lion demanded to have the scroll back, but seeing that MK was threatening him, he questioned MK and Mei's innocence of the theft of the scroll despite it being in their possession. When MK and Mei answered his question informally, he ended up laughing before revealing to them that he had heard of them before.
Azure Lion introduced himself, mentioning that he has had many names, but the one people were most familiar with is the Azure Lion. However, he was disappointed that MK and Mei were not familiar with him at all. He explained the Scroll of Memory and that Monkey King could've been the culprit for its theft. MK was surprised by this and asked if Azure Lion knows Monkey King. Azure Lion responded by saying that everyone knew Monkey King and revealed how they were once sworn brothers. MK became suspicious, since the Demon Bull King was also a sworn brother of Monkey King. Azure Lion acknowledged that Monkey King was not the easiest person to get along with and tended to keep people at a distance. He admitted that they made mistakes when they were young.
Azure falsely claim that Monkey King stole the scroll because of how he became sentimental in his age, as the scroll contains the Journey to the West. Azure explained the purpose of the scroll and its curse. MK suggested that they should use the scroll and release them, but Azure Lion opposed it, as the world would be at risk if the curse got out. MK emphasized his friends' commitment to take a risk and support each other during challenging times, highlighting the profound significance of the friendship between Azure Lion and Monkey King. Recognizing the significance of their bond, Azure Lion acknowledged that if the Monkie Kids' bond is truly strong, there might be a possibility to offer assistance. However, he stressed the necessity to act swiftly.
Mei was taken aback by Azure Lion's unexpected willingness to lend a helping hand. Azure Lion affirmed, since he and Monkey King's brotherly bond cannot be shaken. He proposed the temporary opening of the scroll, granting them access, but made it clear that locating their friends would be solely their responsibility. Azure Lion further explained that breaking the protective curse within the scroll would require their combined strength, enabling them to escape from its confines. Azure Lion requested the scroll from MK, emphasizing the importance of trust in their endeavor. MK handed over the scroll to Azure Lion, who reminded them to watch out for one another and instilled confidence in their abilities. Azure Lion proceeded to open the scroll, transporting MK and Mei inside.
The Great Tang Man
Using astral projection, Azure Lion met up with MK and Mei after the two went inside the Scroll of Memory. He warned them that the protective curse can find them if they alter the scroll's memories too much. So Azure Lion gave MK and Mei new clothes to blend in to prevent that. But before he could finish, he was cut off as MK started taking his clothes off in front of him.
Azure Lion questioned MK's belief in Tang's mystical power, comparing him to Tang Sanzang. MK responded with uncertainty, but Azure Lion suggested that if Tang had knowledge of mystical arts, he could use advanced instructions to guide him. Azure Lion believed that if the Monkie Kids' friendship was truly strong, they would always find their way back to each other.
Pitiful Creatures
Once the protective curse was destroyed, Azure Lion went inside the Scroll of Memory through a portal, meeting up with the Monkie Kids and Monkey King. Seeing Monkey King, who spoke to Azure resentfully, Azure Lion replied that it is him and snapped his fingers, taking himself and the Monkie Kids to Camel Ridge as he left Monkey King behind, keeping him trapped in the scroll. As the others got into a fighting stand in front of Azure Lion, MK was concerned about what happened to Monkey King and asked Azure what happened to him. Only for Azure Lion to stand by his throne in silence.
The Brotherhood
Azure Lion was surprised by the fact that the Monkie Kids knew about his plan and remained silent. He mentioned that he had not intended to deceive the team but he believed that they wouldn't comprehend the situation. He suggested that sometimes it is more convenient to seek forgiveness rather than permission. Mei proceeded to attack Azure, who evaded the attack and retaliating with a barrage of ink from the Scroll of Memory. Mei attempted to strike back, but Peng was summoned from the scroll. As the Brotherhood were freed and attacked the Monkie Kids, Azure Lion intervened, cautioning Peng that Tang is not who they believe to be. Peng teased Azure Lion for the duration it took to free them from the Scroll of Memory. Yellowtusk then inquired about the duration of his and Peng's entrapment, to which Azure Lion admitted uncertainty. The Brotherhood then embraced. Azure apologized and introduced Peng and Yellowtusk to MK, who was confused to Azure of why he didn't mention the plan if the point was just to free Peng and Yellowtusk. Azure acknowledged the need for an explanation and offered to provide one by opening a memory for MK and himself.
Azure Lion recounted his past as a Celestial Warrior to MK, elucidating his valiant efforts to defend the people and challenged the rule of the Jade Emperor. He further expounded on the Brotherhood's mission, which was thwarted when their attempt to overthrow the Jade Emperor failed, and Monkey King pledged allegiance to Tang Sanzang. Despite the setback, Azure Lion and his remaining comrades persisted in their pursuit of justice, but were defeated by Monkey King and the pilgrims, who destroyed Camel Ridge and incarcerated Peng and Yellowtusk in the Scroll of Memory.
MK disbelieved the the memories he saw in the scroll, as Monkey King was considered to be a hero who would not commit such actions. However, Azure Lion confirmed the veracity of the information. He then recounted how Monkey King's betrayal had resulted in the imprisonment of Peng and Yellowtusk, calling him his only friends. Azure grateful towards MK for returning them to him, acknowledging that it was beyond his own capabilities to free them from the scroll. When Pigsy said that Monkey King should be free from the scroll since he's been there long enough, Azure Lion disagreed, explaining that Monkey King would remain sealed within the scroll until their mission to conquer the Celestial Realm was complete. Upon assuming his Mystic Monkey form, MK demanded the release of Monkey King. However, Azure Lion implored MK to exercise prudence in his actions. A fight began between MK and Azure as they vied for possession of the plank. In a momentary lapse, Azure perceived MK as Monkey King, prompting him to summon his sword and attacked MK.
Regrettably, the plank was inadvertently cleaved in two, much to everyone's shock. Azure Lion was disappointed as he picked up the broken pieces, lamenting that his intentions were not to have things end this way. He mentioned that Monkey King's release was no longer possible due to MK's actions. Sandy proposed the idea of using magic tape to fix the situation. Despite his suggestion, Azure Lion remained uncertain about the possibility of fixing it. Azure Lion hoped to reconcile with Monkey King, and acknowledged that his legacy would persist in their triumph. He urged Peng and Yellowtusk to go. Peng mentioned Azure Lion's idea of sparing MK, but Azure Lion reminded them that MK was merely a victim of Monkey King's actions. But Azure Lion warned the Monkie Kids to avoid interfering with their mission as he threaten to destroy to split plank. Momentarily, the Brotherhood left from Camel Ridge.
Roast of the Monkie Kids
The Brotherhood forcefully entered the Demon Bull King's fortress. In a heated exchange, the Demon Bull King accuses Azure Lion of being driven mad. Azure Lion justified his actions by stating that he only retaliates against those who threaten the Brotherhood. He reminded Demon Bull King of their cause. Demon Bull King questions Azure Lion's repeated failure. In turn, Azure Lion accused the Demon Bull King of being sentimental by his love for Princess Iron Fan, remarking that DBK would not so easily swayed. The Demon Bull King warned Azure not to speak or even look at his wife. Azure Lion expressed disappointment at DBK's perceived weakness, noting that he had become subservient to the Monkey King and was no longer the strong and mighty demon he once was. Azure Lion was disappointed by DBK's actions, prompting him to summon the Scroll of Memory. Despite Princess Iron Fan's attempts to impede Azure's efforts, she too succumbed to the ink, as did the Demon Bull King. Red Son was spared by Azure Lion, letting him inform the Celestial Armies of the Brotherhood's arrival. Yellowtusk pointed out that the Demon Bull King was their final chance to reform the Brotherhood while Peng added that Macaque had hidden himself. Azure Lion dismissed their concerns, saying that they possessed enough power to accomplish their goal without them.
Azure Lion looked upon the devastation of Camel Ridge as Peng inquired about the transportation being ready. As Yellowtusk said that they're done, Azure and the others proceed to teleport to the Celestial Realm, where Ne Zha, Red Son, and the Celestial Armies await them. Ne Zha warned Azure to leave the Celestial Realm or face the consequences of his actions. However, Azure Lion remained steadfast in his unwavering determination to bring an end to the reign of the Jade Emperor.
The Jade Emperor
In the midst of the attack on the Celestial Realm, Azure Lion employed the Scroll of Memory to confront the Celestial Armies, summoning the Ink Demons and capturing most of the Celestial Warriors. Ne Zha desperately implores Azure to reconsider his actions, recognizing the seemingly unachievable victory. However, Azure Lion dismisses Ne Zha's plea, confidently asserting the Brotherhood's inevitable triumph. Ne Zha is forcefully pushed back by Azure Lion's power. In an attempt to retaliate against Azure Lion, Red Son steps forward. However, Azure Lion effortlessly halts Red Son's advance by gripping his face. Utilizing a piece of the scroll, Azure Lion ensnares Red Son, effectively trapping him inside. As the Brotherhood battled Ne Zha, Azure Lion tried to convince Ne Zha to reconsider sacrificing himself for the Jade Emperor. However, his attention was quickly drawn to the Monkie Kids aboard the Cloud Airship, under the leadership of Mei. Mei stepped on Azure Lion's face and snatched the bamboo slip containing the Monkey King from his possession. Despite this setback, Azure Lion, with the assistance of his sworn brothers, managed to retrieve the plank. Azure Lion made it clear to the Monkie Kids that their resistance would not be tolerated, even though he had shown them mercy in the past. Azure Lion sought to use the Scroll of Memory on the Monkie Kids, but his efforts were thwarted by Ne Zha, who cut the planks away.
As the two sides battled, Azure Lion questioned whether the Jade Emperor was truly unable to help or simply refused to aid the heroes. He went on to state that the Jade Emperor viewed all life as inferior to himself, as evidenced by his self-centered nature and lack of concern for improving the world despite possessing the power to do so. Ne Zha explained to Azure Lion that there was a deeper significance to the Jade Emperor's rule that Azure Lion couldn't not fully comprehend. However, Azure Lion remained adamant, asserting that he would discover the truth on his own. As Azure Lion prepared to strike with his sword, MMK intervened and landed various hits on Azure Lion until he used a powerful roar to knock him down. Azure Lion informed MK that he couldn't hinder his progress, but was momentarily taken aback when MK was reluctant to engage in a fight and pleaded with Azure Lion not to proceed. Despite MK's plea, Azure Lion persisted and tried to attack MK and the rest with his sword. But Tang used a portal to teleport them out.
With the Monkie Kids and Ne Zha out of the way, Azure Lion and the Brotherhood proceeded to make their way into the Celestial Palace. As they entered, they saw the Jade Emperor. Azure Lion learned directly from the Jade Emperor himself that was succumbing to the ravages of time, rendering him weak and on the brink of death. However, Azure Lion didn't care how the Jade Emperor died. Unfazed by the Jade Emperor's attempts to intimidate him, Azure Lion stood his ground as the interrogation began. The Jade Emperor offered Azure Lion a chance to claim the throne for himself, but with a stern warning that he would have to fight for it. Azure Lion swiftly struck the Jade Emperor with his sword, delivering a fatal blow that ended the ruler's life. As the Jade Emperor disintegrated, Azure Lion absorbed his immense power, instantly becoming the new Jade Emperor. Now with his newfound authority, Azure Lion believed that the Brotherhood could now bring about positive change to the mortal realm.
The Plan Man
Azure Lion reminisced about the day when the Brotherhood conspired to attack the Celestial Realm until he lost control over the Jade Emperor's power. Fortunately, Yellowtusk came to his aid, utilizing the ancestral weapons to repair to the Celestial Realm. However, Yellowtusk was remorseful over their previous actions, believing that their attempt to overthrow the Jade Emperor was a grievous mistake, as it was premature. Azure Lion, however, remained confident in his ability to wield his newfound power, citing the success of his predecessor. Despite Yellowtusk's concerns over the potential destruction of the Celestial Realm, Azure Lion brushed them off, stating that the price was worth any sacrifice, as nothing great comes without a cost.
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As Azure Lion strode into the dining hall, he warmly greeted Peng and Yellowtusk, reflecting on the bond they had forged within the dining hall. He believed that they were capable of achieving extraordinary feats and suggested that they celebrate their successes. Nevertheless, Yellowtusk voiced his doubts and warned Azure Lion of the dangers that his power posed, saying that they had underestimated the Jade Emperor's might and would be unable to save the world if it were to be destroyed. Azure Lion grew defensive and pulled out the Scroll of Memory, reminding Peng and Yellowtusk of his pivotal role in securing their freedom. He apologized for his outburst, acknowledging that his thoughts had been consumed by Monkey King and MK. Despite Peng's attempts to reassure him, Azure Lion remained fixated on the fact that Monkey King was still alive, believing that he could not remake the world until Monkey King was vanquished. Yellowtusk reminded him of the pressing matters at hand. Not wanting to become an idle god like the previous Jade Emperor, Azure Lion wielded his sword and teleported the Brotherhood to confront Monkey King.
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Upon their arrival at Flower Fruit Mountain, Azure Lion issued a stern warning to the heroes. Despite his previous admonitions, the heroes persisted in their plans to commit treason against him. Therefore, Azure Lion declared his intention to put Monkey King's immortality to the test.
Rip and Tear
In an effort to overcome MK and Monkey King, Azure employed the Scroll of Memory as a weapon against them. MK and Monkey King dodged Azure Lion's attacks until they were eventually knocked off their magic clouds. Azure then presented MK with a final chance to surrender and spare himself from destruction. Monkey King questioned whether this offer also applied to him. As Azure Lion directed the planks of the Scroll of Memory, Monkey King interpreted it as a clear rejection of his plea. MK adamantly refused to surrender, provoking Azure to engage in a fierce battle with both of them. The fight grew more intense, leading Azure to summon Ink Demons in an attempt to trap MK. Azure came close to stabbing MK with his sword, but MK utilized his shrinking powers to evade the attack. Monkey King delivered a powerful kick that sent Azure Lion flying across Flower Fruit Mountain. Mocking Azure for his defeat, Monkey King and MK pointed out the irony of the new Jade Emperor being bested by two monkeys on his first day as ruler.
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Enraged by their taunts, Azure unleashed a mighty roar to silence them, insulting Monkey King and expressing disbelief that he had once considered him a king. Monkey King countered by summoning the Golden Staff, which he used to crush Azure beneath its weight. Azure tapped into his powers and transformed into a colossal figure, freeing himself from the Golden Staff's grasp. With a display of immense strength, Azure Lion destroyed the Monkey Mech, dismissing it as yet another foolish game that had exhausted his patience. To his surprise, Azure then realized that MK and Monkey King had deceived him. The pilots controlling the mech were actually the Party Clone and the Monkey King cardboard cutout. They threw an explosive banana at Azure, further fueling his hatred for monkeys.
Azure became aware that Monkey King had obtained the Scroll of Memory without him noticing. He boldly declared that if Monkey King refused to kneel before him, he would meet his demise before Azure himself. Azure Lion scattered the planks and monkeys in his path as he readied himself to eliminate Monkey King once and for all. However, much to his dismay, MK blocked Azure Lion's attack. Azure Lion voiced his disbelief at the loyalty MK had towards Monkey King, despite the countless hardships he had endured because of him. Azure questioned why MK would risk his life to protect someone who had repeatedly let him down. Despite Monkey King's pleas, Azure Lion remained steadfast in his belief that Monkey King was undeserving of such loyalty. He insisted that they would only learn the hard way, just as he had. Azure regretted ever placing his trust in Monkey King, labeling him as the False Sage, Equal to Nothing. Azure Lion attempted to execute the two, but his plans were interrupted by a powerful beam of energy emitted by MK.
In a sudden transformation, MK assumed his Mystic Monkey form, ready to retaliate. Striking Azure Lion with his tail, MK engaged him in a fierce battle. Azure Lion quickly realized that he was no match for MK's lightning speed and found himself unable to comprehend the true nature of his opponent. Azure's body began to fracture under the Power of the Jade Emperor. Azure Lion quickly reacted to MK's next attack from behind and swiftly grabbed him. He accused Monkey King of being responsible for MK's transformation into a savage beast and urged MK to take a good look at himself. Despite Azure's efforts, MK relentlessly assaulted him, claiming that there was nothing wrong with him and exposing Azure's deception. MK then challenged Azure to prove his heroism. Azure Lion was thrown into the heart of Flower Fruit Mountain. Overwhelmed by the Power of the Jade Emperor, Azure unleashed a surge of energy that started tearing apart the fabric of the universe.
Better Than We Found It
Azure Lion's struggle to control his immense power continues to intensify. He firmly believed that he can fix everything, while holding the opinion that if Monkey King had not intervened, everything would have been as it should be. But MK said Monkey King wasn't to blame. As Monkey King found Azure in his current state, the latter tried to attack him. Monkey King implored Azure Lion to cease his destructive actions, emphasizing that his victory would result in the annihilation of not only him, but the entire universe. Horrified, Azure Lion vehemently denied that his intentions were ever to bring about such devastation. He was insisting that he can still fix things, emphasizing that it is the very purpose for his presence. Monkey King inquired about the sudden presence of Azure Lion, prompting Azure Lion to question the nature of the query since Monkey King had just witnessed his arrival. However, Monkey King clarified that he was actually wondering how Azure Lion managed to escape from the Underworld after being banished there. Furthermore, Monkey King was curious regarding how Azure Lion came into possession of the Scroll of Memory, fully aware that Azure Lion could not have stolen it.
Overwhelmed by the barrage of questions, Azure Lion was in a loss for answers, unable to comprehend who gave him the scroll. Monkey King warned Azure Lion that the person who gave him the scroll was aware of the grave consequences that would ensue from his acquisition of the Power of the Jade Emperor, rendering him a pawn in a scheme to end the universe. Azure Lion shared his profound sorrow while discussing his genuine wish to make the world better. MK told Azure Lion that he still held the ability to accomplish this, as he was the sole savior of the universe at present. In an effort to reverse the damage he has caused, Azure summoned his sword and began the task of fixing everything. As the universe was pieced back together, Azure slowly disintegrated. In his final moments, Azure gave MK and Monkey King a tearful smile, acknowledging the decision he had to make and the consequences that came with it. Seconds later, he disintegrated completely.
Legacy
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Personality
Azure Lion is a noble demon who cares for others, swearing that he would save the world from its suffering that the Jade Emperor refused to stop.[3] He was incredibly self-righteous and unlike the others, he was obsessed with this cause, to the point where it was considered to be a fantasy by DBK and the Jade Emperor. He was firmly determined on claiming the throne for a better ruler by any means necessary.[11][12] He tries to avoid fights with his enemies unless they won't listen or attempt to harm the Brotherhood.[11]
He exploits others if it's beneficial for both himself and the one he's taking advantage of, as he only tricked MK into going inside the Scroll of Memory and destroying the curse so that both of their friends could be free, and expressed guilt when the Brotherhood ruthlessly attacked the Monkie Kids, something that Azure Lion told them to stop doing.[2]
As seen with how he speaks about Monkey King and the Demon Bull Family, the Azure Lion is an unreliable narrator. He is also incredibly stubborn and unwilling to reconsider his actions and views, even blaming others for his mistakes. He is known to lash out violently when it comes to Monkey King. [2]
Appearance
As his name implies, Azure Lion had azure skin with a spiky orange shoulder-length mane, and two tufts at the front are tied with purple bands. He had pink eyes, along with thick orange eyebrows and orange facial hair. He also had sharp fangs, a broad chest, and feline knees.
In LEGO form
| LEGO model | Show | LEGO model's description |
|---|---|---|
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His right arm is covered in ink and his nose is orange, his skin-tone is a darker shade of azure and the middle claw on his left foot is cracked. His left breast is exposed and his clothing features more purple. The cape has nine triangular points and the back of it is black. |
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Azure Lion has a golden nose, and his arms and thighs are covered in ink. His hands and toes are orange. He lacks the cape and is barefoot, only having golden chains at the bottom of his legs. He also has a tail and the Brotherhood's insignia on his shoulders and chest. |
Weapons & Accessories
Scroll of Memory
The Scroll of Memory is an ancient artifact made in the Underworld that imprisons people within it. After the Monkie Kids were reunited and undid the scroll's protective curse, Azure Lion began to use the scroll to control the Ink Demons.
Sword
Azure Lion wields a large saber that he can summon and dissipate at anytime.
Abilities
Skillset
- Swordsmanship - Azure possessed incredible proficiency in wielding his sword.
Powers
- Demon Physiology - Azure Lion possessed the traits and abilities of a demon.
- Longevity - As a demon, Azure Lion possessed a prolonged lifespan, being able to live for thousands of years since he was born before the Journey to the West, which took place in the 7th Century.
- Materialization - By using the energy of anyone or anything, Azure Lion could create structures of various sizes, as he was able to create Camel Ridge with his sworn brothers at the cost of a thriving home being turned into a wasteland around the city.
- Enhanced Roar - Azure Lion could produce a powerful roar of high amplitude from his vocal cords.
- Astral projection - Azure Lion could interact with other people through telepathy, thus being able to talk to another person despite not being in the same place as them.
- Yellow Color Stone - As the Jade Emperor, Azure Lion possessed all the powers of the Celestial Host.
- Unikinesis - Azure Lion could control the entire universe and everything in it, making him have control of all the realms and change it to the way he sees fit.
- Titanshifting - Azure Lion was able to enter a state in which he transformed into a giant.
Weaknesses
- Yellow Color Stone - Azure struggled to control the yellow Color Stone because he didn't realize how much control it required and possessed it too soon. This led to the power of the stone overwhelming his body, ultimately resulting in his death as he nearly destroyed the universe.
Appearances
| Season 4 | ||||||||||||
| Opening sequence: | Appears | |||||||||||
| Episodes | ||||||||||||
| 35. "Familiar Tales": | Absent | 36. "New Adventures": | Debut | |||||||||
| 37. "The Great Tang Man": | Projection | 38. "Pig-Napped!": | Flashback | |||||||||
| 39. "Court of the Yellow Robed Demon": | Memory | 40. "Show Me the Monster": | Mentioned | |||||||||
| 41. "Pitiful Creatures": | Appears | 42. "The Brotherhood": | Appears | |||||||||
| 43. "Roast of the Monkie Kids": | Appears | 44. "The Jade Emperor": | Appears | |||||||||
| The Emperor's Wrath | ||||||||||||
| 45. "A Lifetime of Mistakes": | Appears | 46. "The Plan Man": | Appears | |||||||||
| 47. "Rip and Tear": | Appears | 48. "Better Than We Found It": | Appears | |||||||||
| Sets | ||||||||||||
| 80040 Monkie Kid's Combi Mech: |
Absent | |||||||||||
| 80041 Mei's Dragon Jet: |
Absent | 80043 Yellow Tusk Elephant: |
Absent | |||||||||
| 80044 Monkie Kid's Team Hideout: |
Absent | 80045 Monkey King Ultra Mech: |
Appears | |||||||||
| 80046 Monkie Kid's Cloud Airship: |
Pictured | 80047 Mei's Guardian Dragon: |
Absent | |||||||||
| 80048 The Mighty Azure Lion: |
Appears | 80049 Dragon of the East Palace: |
Absent | |||||||||
| Season 5 | ||||||||||||
| Opening sequence: | Appears | |||||||||||
| Episodes | ||||||||||||
| 49. "Strings That Bind": | Flashback | 50. "Collar the King": | Absent | |||||||||
| 51. "Temple of the Goddess": | Absent | 52. "The Storm Within": | Flashback | |||||||||
| 53. "Claim to Flame": | Flashback | 54. "Festival Fugitives": | Mentioned | |||||||||
| 55. "Into the Pagoda": | Memory | 56. "The Cage": | Mentioned | |||||||||
| 57."Sacrifice": | Absent | 58. "Harbinger": | Absent | |||||||||
| Sets | ||||||||||||
| 80050 Creative Vehicles: |
Absent | 80051 Monkie Kid's Mini Mech: |
Absent | |||||||||
| 80053 Mei's Dragon Mech: |
Absent | 80054 Megapolis City: |
Statue | |||||||||
| 80055 Monkie Kid's Team Power Truck: |
Absent | 80056 Nine-Headed Beast: |
Absent | |||||||||
| 80057 Nezha's Ring of Fire Mech: |
Absent | 80058 Celestial Pagoda: |
Absent | |||||||||
Names in other languages
| Language | Name | Translation, etymology, and notes |
|---|---|---|
| Korean | Show: 사타왕 Sets: 아주르 라이언 |
Show: Translates to King Sata. Sets: Korean reading of the English Azure Lion. |
| Mandarin (China) |
Show: 青毛獅 Sets: 青毛狮王 |
Show: Translates to Azure Lion Sets: Translates to Azure Lion King. |
Behind the scenes
- Azure's voice actor, Christopher Sabat, is known for his roles as Piccolo and Vegeta in the "Dragon Ball Z", which is a loose Journey to the West adaptation.
- Azure Lion is based on the villain from Journey to the West along with his leader, Golden-Winged Great Peng and the Yellow-Toothed Elephant Demon.
- Azure Lion and Peng's roles are switched, as Peng was the leader of the demon trio while the Azure Lion was a follower.
- In the novel, he is fought by the pilgrims twice, once as the Lion-Lynx Demon (獅猁怪), where he had killed and replaced the king of Wuji Kingdom, and later as the Azure Lion.[13] He was also later revealed to be the steed of the Bodhisattva, Mañjuśrī.[14]
- His most notable action was swallowing the Monkey King whole, which led to Sun Wukong tying a rope around his heart and yanking it, causing him much pain. [15]
- The Azure Lion also takes the role of the Lion Camel King, one of the Monkey King's six sworn brothers.
- Both of these identities may be referenced in the show, as he mentioned that he had gone by many names.
- He is the only member of the reforged Brotherhood not to have his name changed between the sets and the show.
- The Azure Lion's design seems partially based on the characters incarnation from the 1986 series Journey to the West.
- In Christine Wilson's model sheet of Azure Lion, it was specified that the black covering on Azure Lion's torso was fur,[16] as opposed to being interpreted as a type of garment by Donavan Foo.[17]
- It was debated early in the design process if Azure Lion should have fingers or minifigure-hands, the latter of which was chosen. [18]
Trivia
- The Azure Lion has a unique facial shape unlike the usual square head of other characters.
- He is one of the only villains that consistently refers to MK by his name, as most call him by a nickname or insult.
- Azure Lion is the first main antagonist of Monkie Kid that wasn't introduced in the pilot nor Season 1.
- He also has several similar traits of the previous villains:
- Like the Demon Bull Family, the way Azure Lion cares for his sworn brothers is similar to how the Demon Bull Family care for each other, while at the same time, they intend to conquer a realm, the mortal realm for the Demon Bull Family and the Celestial Realm for Azure Lion.
- Azure Lion's desire to conquer the Celestial Realm makes him used as a pawn for someone else, similar to how Spider Queen's desire to rule the mortal realm led her into becoming a pawn for Lady Bone Demon.
- Like Macaque, Azure Lion once allied with Monkey King and saw him as a friend. But after Monkey King's allegiance to Tang Sanzang, Azure Lion believed that he was betrayed and saw him as an enemy. Unlike Macaque, Azure Lion tried to make things right with Monkey King.
- Like Lady Bone Demon, Azure Lion's intentions involve the realms, with him wanting all life to be treated equally. In their first attempt, they aided an emperor. But seeing how little the emperors cared, both Azure Lion and Lady Bone Demon changed their intentions, with Lady Bone Demon's desire to destroy the mortal realm and create a new one in its place while Azure Lion seeks to overthrow the Jade Emperor, and let Monkey King take his place. During the time they served an emperor, they also became in league with someone that also betrayed their ruler until the season's special (the Mayor for Lady Bone Demon, and Peng and Yellowtusk for Azure). Although in Azure's case, it was friendship rather than subjugation. Both of their actions also led to the deaths of the Emperors they once served. Never once while they were imprisoned, had they ever reconsidered their ideologies.
- After failing in their first attempt, both Azure Lion and Lady Bone Demon corrected their mistakes and used a powerful force in their second try, with Lady Bone Demon attempting to use the Samadhi Fire on all the realms while Azure Lion used the Scroll of Memory to be the one to overthrow the Jade Emperor and kill him. Unlike Lady Bone Demon, Azure Lion succeeded.
- Along with Macaque, they both tricked MK into thinking that they were good upon meeting him in person, only to have their true intentions unveiled later on. Though, the Azure Lion seems more hesitant to harm MK than either of them.
- He also has several similar traits of the previous villains:
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References
- ↑ 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.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 Breen, David. "The Brotherhood". Monkie Kid. Season 4. Episode 42.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 Breen, David. "New Adventures". Monkie Kid. Season 4. Episode 36.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 Harper, Sarah. "Rip and Tear". Monkie Kid. Season 4. Episode 47.
- ↑ Green, David. "The Plan Man". Monkie Kid. Season 4. Episode 46. — Azure Lion: “I did not sacrifice everything simply to be an idle deity.”
- ↑ LEGO® Monkie Kid™ Playsets for Ages 6-10+| Themes | LEGO.com.
- ↑ Green, David. "The Plan Man". Monkie Kid. Season 4. Episode 46.
- ↑ Breen, David. "A Lifetime of Mistakes". Monkie Kid. Season 4. Episode 45.
- ↑ Devlin, Deirdre. "Court of the Yellow Robed Demon". Monkie Kid. Season 4. Episode 39.
- ↑ Fujita, Mark; Harper, Sarah. "Better Than We Found It". Monkie Kid. Season 4. Episode 48.
- ↑ 11.0 11.1 Harper, Sarah. "Roast of the Monkie Kids". Monkie Kid. Season 4. Episode 43.
- ↑ Harper, Sarah. "The Jade Emperor". Monkie Kid. Season 4. Episode 44.
- ↑ Journey to the West, Volume 2, Chapter 39 (Anthony C. Yu translation, Revised Edition)
- ↑ Journey to the West, Volume 4, Chapter 77 (Anthony C. Yu translation, Revised Edition)
- ↑ "Dropping down from the clouds, he grabbed the rope with both hands and tugged with all his strength, and immediately a sharp pain shot through the heart of the old demon." (Chapter 76)
- ↑ File:Azure Lion Young Model Sheet Christine Wilson.jpg
- ↑ File:Azureliona-design-colour-v001-copy orig.jpg
- ↑ Jacobson, Ashe (August 9, 2023). If I remember right I think there was some really early debate in the design phase abt whether he'd have mini-fig hands or big fig hands and I think my brain crossed some wires in a few drawings- whoops!.
| Preceded by: Jade Emperor |
Jade Emperor |
Succeeded by: Li Jing |