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circeyoru · 3 days ago

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Shadow and Void _ Part 17: Changing Tides

[Yandere!Sung Jinwoo x Enemy Monarch!Reader]

Arc 1: Part 1 ― Part 2 ― Part 3 Arc 2: Part 4 ― Part 5 Arc 3: Part 6 ― Part 7 Arc 4: Part 8 ― Part 9 ― Part 10 ― Part 11 ― Special Arc 5: Part 12 ― Part 13 ― Part 14 ― Part 15 Arc 6: Part 16 ― Part 17 (here) ― Part 18 Epilogue (links will be updated when the last part is out)

“So, the Honourary Sovereign—Monarch of Void has been absent since our arrival… That is quite familiar.” Bellion nodded his head in memory.

“The presence can be sensed, but there’s been a distance… Avoidance…” Jinwoo regretfully admitted. His hand scratched the back of his head in frustration. He sighed and tilted his head back, looking off to the side, “Was it wrong to say that I love the Monarch of Void?”

The air shifted. Igris and Bellion shared a knowing look before looking back at Jinwoo, who appeared ignorant of their change, still in turmoil over the issue that he had just dropped. Igris bowed, a hand on his chest, his newly regained voice shining through now that he could communicate without restrictions. “The Honourary Sovereign is… different from Our Liege, so we asked for your understanding.”

Jinwoo turned to the two former trusted aids of Ashborn. “You’ve spent more time with My Monarch, so what’s sh- he- Um… They thinking?”

The two shared a look again before Igris spoke, “Our understanding of the Honourary Sovereign is limited, however, the Monarch of Void has been staying in the human realm for more extended periods when compared to the other Monarchs. Their indifference and self-centeredness have changed when it came to matters concerning Our former and current Liege. Perhaps, Our Liege’s understanding would be more insightful than ours.”

“Are you saying the Monarch of Void has adapted human concepts? Mindsets?” Questioned Jinwoo in amazement. Though now that he thought about it, that whole talk between heroes and villains as if you were in a movie or story didn’t make a lot of sense. Your method of comfort was also… weird, to say the least.

Jinwoo thought back to the beginning.

You cared for yourself. You cared for Ashborn’s return. You pushed him aside and placed him at a distance. It wasn’t anything special since he saw you as nothing more than an ally on a leash. When you proved yourself to be useless, you were a Monarch to cut down. You saw him as a vessel; he saw you as a tool.

Then he stepped back and saw you in a different light. He fell. He loved your indifference but also the cracks you were showing him, little moments. Little humane sides. Love for snacks. Odd speech patterns. Even odder phrases. The little quirks you have when emotions came to the surface, eye twitch, pause in your steps, head tilts. Everything. He loved everything about you.

Inhuman? You are. But an enemy, you no longer were.

It’s not obvious, but the way you show your love was cute in its own way. Though, a bit extreme. Still, the way you love him, he’ll love it all the same. Because you were you and that was enough.

“Get back to training.” Jinwoo turned to his allies, old and new alike. “We need to get this war over with.”

After everything’s over, he will enjoy his time with you, and he will embrace you within his space. He will love everything about you. He will cage you in his love.

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In the hospital room, you stared down at the giant figure of a human. Well, to be honest, you’re not sure how this human even came to grow to this size. It was as though he were half giant. Suddenly, his eyes opened and your face fell as you glared, “I’m not talking to you.”

“Noble and indifferent Monarch, Time is in a fragile state and will be broken soon. There’s not enough for this to continue playing like eons ago.” Using Thomas’ body as a vessel, the Ruler shamelessly spoke to you in a wounded human’s form. “Your power will be irreplaceable and monumental in this war.”

“Let the human rest.” You turned away, your eyes rolled in annoyance. “I thought you lot treasured humans.”

“A few sacrifices are necessary for the greater good.”

You snapped back at it, your hand reached out to grab Thomas by the throat and pulled back. However, you didn’t pull out the human’s vocal cords; you dragged out the Fragment that was residing within and knocked it into your realm as the room’s space mirrored and flipped with your overwhelming force.

Within your skill of {Mirrored Space}, the hospital room is mirrored, everything and everyone are the same but flipped. Though it’s a different story for the Fragment and you, since you two weren’t beings of Earth. You threw the entitled Fragment into the wall, creating a crater with such force that would have broken the walls if you were still in the real world.

“Well, don’t you lot just believe you can control everything so easily, huh?” Your eyes narrowed at the recovering Fragment, you stepped over and slammed your foot on its chest, pinning it down. It choked, but you knew better than to believe that farce. “So you act now that Ashborn is gone and Jinwoo is the human’s shield. The final confirmation that Jinwoo is your ally and not an enemy.” You applied more force, enclosing the space around the Fragment, compacting its form. “The perfect incentive for Space to join your side, huh?”

The Fragment’s eyes widened at the title you used. “You… You knew…?”

Your foot shifted and kicked the Fragment by its chin, backing up and sat on nothing but your space with your legs crossed. “Tsk, what do you take me for? Every time you turned back Time, I didn’t seem to wake up at the same time as you all. Of course not, because Time and Space are one. One side uses its ultimate power, the purpose its meant to be…” Your eyes twitched and you swallowed, “We die little by little.” Your scowl returned as you squeezed the space around the Fragment’s neck. “The only difference is, Space has gained consciousness and Time was just a tool to be controlled. The irony.”

“You kill me, that human will be in danger.” The Fragment spoke, strained.

“Can you even die?” You mocked with a smirk, “What a good shield you all found and gained. What a perfect bargaining chip you all gained.” You sighed and released it with the flick of your hand, “Ji- The Shadow Monarch’s victory—The world’s victory is assured. An oath was made and so long as Sung Jinwoo is on your side, the Monarchs will fall.”

The Fragment got up and bowed. “That is excellent news.” Its gaze darted to Thomas lying on the bed before your indifferent frame. This run had been long, but the result was best ever. The Monarch of Void that never cared, cared for a human that awakened as the Shadow Monarch that will protect the world. “I will pass on this revelation to the Rulers once my human is healed.”

You hummed, finding it all so dull. You snapped your fingers and the space shifted back, you automatically stood back to the bed’s side. You stared at the human with half-lid eyes as the Fragment returned back within Thomas’ figure. So annoying…

Thomas groaned awake, his eyebrows furrowed and his eyes squeezed before opening weakly. His arms twitched, suspecting he wanted to shield his eyes from the sunlight from the window, you flicked your wrist and the curtains closed, dimming the room. “Hey, it’s you.”

“What’s with you humans and being a hero?” You hissed.

“I don’t know where you asking this from, but I have a clue who you’re talking about.” Thomas smirked at the scowl on your voice. “He found himself a good woman.”

You glared at him but sighed, not wanting to explain the nature of your being to him. He’s not Jinwoo anyways. You snapped at yourself for thinking that broke character for a moment and internally screamed.

“I can’t guarantee, but don’t most people want to appear as the ‘good guy’?” Thomas wondered aloud.

“What’s so good about appearing good to others?” You snarled, frowning. For as long as you lived you didn’t care who had what impression of you as long as those you cared for didn’t dislike you and accepted you. Like Ashborn did and never pushed you away, now Jinwoo was doing the same. Yet, you can’t help but feel like you weren’t enough once more. Why does Jinwoo want to prove to the world that he’s good? His family is there for him, his friends are by his side, and even you… You took an oath for him. Not that he was aware of it or its significance.

Thomas shrugged as best as he could, “Don’t know about him. I just do whatever I please and protect what’s mine and take what I want.”

You eyed him. “That mindset… is perfect.”

Thomas paused in awe, then chuckled, “If only we had met earlier, before Hunter Sung. I would have taken you.”

“Don’t go there.” You deadpanned, snapping your fingers and the curtains opened, blinding him without warning. You walked towards the door, “Happy recovery or whatever.”

“Heroes are usually coloured in a white light.” Thomas suddenly responded, making you take a pause. “They are praised and worshipped, always revered to be good and perfect, untouchable. Villains… Villains are coloured in darkness and shadows, always shunned and feared. Something to purge and destroy in the name of peace.” He eyed your back, “One good thing about villains, they know what they want and no price is too high for it.”

“I hope Hunter Sung doesn’t sacrifice anything special to him.” “I wonder if the Shadow Monarch will sacrifice you this time?”

You left and didn’t turn back. You knew what to do.

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“What are they doing?” You blinked at Beru struggling on the ground at Bellion’s mercy.

“Beru challenged Bellion for the title of Grand Marshal.” Jinwoo explained bluntly, “But it’s a losing match.”

“Obviously.” You hummed along, unconsciously leaning into Jinwoo’s arm with your arms crossed over your chest. “Should you stop this?”

Jinwoo eyed the top of your head. Don’t you notice what you were doing to him? “Let’s give him some more time to prove himself, who knows, maybe he can actually pull though.”

You snickered, your shoulders doing a cute jerk that Jinwoo feared you would move away but that only made your head nuzzle closer to him, “I doubt it, Bellion’s the Grand Marshal for a reason.”

As if sensing something in the air, Bellion and Beru prolonged their match. Though it was for their Liege to enjoy your presence more, they both wanted to prove to the other that they were the stronger one.

“Graaah! My King…!” On his claws and knees, Beru had already exhausted all his strength, speed and plays. “I… Graaah…! I can still… go on…”

“No, you can’t.” You chuckled, crouching down on your tiptoes, your arm over your knees while the other plopped up your head by your cheek. “Silly Shadow.”

Jinwoo questioned, stepping close while Bellion took his place by Jinwoo’s side, “Why do you want the position of Grand Marshal so badly, Beru?”

Beru admitted, “Because… Graaah… I wish to keep fighting by your side…”

You nearly laughed in his ant face, but you controlled yourself while you waited for Jinwoo to think of something to calm the situation. But, hearing nothing from him, you spoke up. “Why not try your hand with me?”

Bellion and Igris flinched from your words, even some Shadows who were nearby and knew of you flinched. They all took a step back; Bellion and Igris even went so far as to signal beckon Jinwoo to step back. Those who were aware were those from Ashborn’s army and shifted in their composure. Yet the change went unnoticed by Beru who looked up to you with a hopeful look—well, as much as he could manage.

“After all, I am the Honourary Sovereign but I’m not one for combat, so…” You smiled innocently with your eyes closed, they opened as you stood up straight, staring down at the naive and hopeful Shadow. “Defeating me should be an easy feat, yes?”

“But I wouldn’t want to cause My Liege’s… Lover harm.” Beru professed. “It would be unbecoming of me.”

Your smile grew, “Don’t be like that. I can heal myself, so just a little light spar. It would plead your case to Your Liege, yes?” You turned to Jinwoo and asked for his permission, “Come on, Jinwoo, won’t you agree to this?”

Jinwoo couldn’t hide his smile as he blushed from just his name being called. This was just the beginning; wait until it’s nicknames, and then—Ahem. “If that’s what you want. Granted.” He whispered to Bellion and Igris, “If Beru gets too close, I want you two to stop him.”

“That…” Bellion looked away to the battle where Beru was getting ready. Catching the glint in your eyes, he internally sighed, “Won’t be necessary. However, your concern and worry are appreciated.”

“What?” Jinwoo raised a brow at the Grand Marshal’s words. He saw you fighting Hae-In, and holding yourself against the three Monarchs; however, that was when he was their target. Beru is ruthless in battle, nothing like the silly any he displays outside.

“You’ll understand.” Igris spoke with a knowing tone.

Everyone turned to the standoff between a Monarch and the originally strongest in Jinwoo’s Shadow Army, the distance between the two sides a lot farther than what Bellion and Beru had in their match. The field was cleared, providing ample space to run around and dodge while also keeping bystanders safe. Beru collected himself, preparing his claws once more as well as his wings. You merely adjusted your clothing and did minimal stretching, all with a carefree smile on your face, as if you were on a stroll, before holding your hands behind your back.

Jinwoo analyzed the situation. While you were powerful, you were described as a tool and a supporter in battles, never were you on the front lines. Not even Ashborn’s memories showed you facing any enemies, merely you providing aid. He’d admit that your powers are great, but limited when your enemy was Beru who has strength and speed that you wouldn’t begin to compare. Perhaps you wanted to cheer Beru up? Give him some confidence after a loss? That was all he could come up with.

“Ready when you are, Beru.” You smiled.

Beru wasted no time in charging forward, without a weapon in sight, you were defenceless. A prey before a predator. His sharp claws extended as he tried to swipe at you. As he got closer—albeit all happened within seconds—he was suddenly struck from behind and was slammed into the ground, creating a crater right in front of you.

“What… What just happened?” Jinwoo’s jaw dropped. “What hit him?”

“Beru did, My Liege.” Bellion revealed.

“The Honourary Sovereign controls space, so the moment Beru used the most strength in his assault, the space of his target changed to the back of his head and the attack was done.” Igris explained.

Bellion told Jinwoo, “The Honourary Sovereign never loses a fight, the method for victory… Is both enchanting and perilous.”

Beru raised his head, seeing double, no, quadruple of your smile face staring down at him. You sang, “Is that it? Little ant?” At your provoking words, his wings flapped until they reached a speed where it appeared as though it was gone and he was floating in the air. You looked up at him, “Good. Good spirit.”

Taking to the skies, Beru dove at you, yet, as if fearing what had happened before would happen again, he backed off at the last second and pulled up. It proved useless as he found himself suddenly teleported in front of you, his eyes widened as he watched in slow motion while your instep connected to the side of his head. The world’s speed returned to normal as he was flung to the side, his body unable to catch up to the realization of what happened, leaving him vulnerable.

You appeared atop of him, your palm coming down at him. No touch was made, but the pressure was still unchanged. He was battened down to the ground, when that wasn’t enough and he struggled to get up, more force was applied to crush him into the earth. A crater wasn’t formed, it was the shape of his form, outlining the helplessness of his situation, even his wings weren’t spared.

Your index finger twirled in the air as you mindlessly watched Beru struggle. This isn’t enough. Mist clouded the battlefield, a layer formed over the ground, and soon a dragon formed out of the fog and towered over you and Beru from behind you.

The second the pressure was gone, Beru took flight and aimed for you out of instinct. He failed to notice the dragon and was hit headfirst by its blast of pure burning magnesium in a torrent of orange sparkles. Beru was knocked to the ground once more. The dragon faded away, and the mist took the form of something else, a serpent. It slithered and constricted Beru in its coils. Beru’s form cracked and snapped while you listened and watched with an emotionless expression.

“I… I su… surrender…” Beru muttered in what strength he had left.

The snake disappeared and so did your mist as they dispersed. Beru fell to the ground, clawing in frustration while you healed him. Weak, he’s so weak. This isn’t enough to protect his Liege or you, this isn’t enough to prove his services.

“You have more than one life, Beru.” You spoke while the others came over. “You are a Shadow, a strong Shadow, but a Shadow first and foremost. Use your immortality to your advantage. In a situation where you can’t escape, make it so that you die and reappear somewhere of your choice. Jinwoo’s not so weak that he can’t resurrect his army within seconds. You included.” You stood up, “Fight knowing that you can afford to die, but your enemies can’t. You can afford to be reckless and blunt.”

Beru bowed his head to you, “I will remember this lesson… Honourary Sovereign.”

You looked at Jinwoo and smiled, “Your army, train them better. The Monarch of Destruction’s soldiers are worse than I was just now.”

Jinwoo nodded. He sighed and declared, “The Grand Marshal can stand on my right, while Beru, you stand on my left.”

“!! My King!!” Tears flowed from Beru’s eyes, if that was even possible.

“Don’t.” Jinwoo stopped the ant from saying anything he’ll regret hearing.

Igris stepped forward, “My Liege, I, too, would like a chance to—”

Jinwoo immediately cut him off, “You can stand behind me.”

You chuckled at Igris’ display. You briefly saw the Shadow playing around, some even making their own contest of strength and power, and some were gathering materials to build something. Feeling a gaze on you, you turned back to Jinwoo, who was staring at you so boldly and openly. You blinked and blinked, suddenly feeling a bit heated under his gaze. “Are you done staring at me?”

“I would stare forever if I could.” He pulled you close to him by your waist with a smirk, “I’m just admiring someone who should be placed on top of the world.”

“...I just beat down your Shadow…” You sweatdropped.

“I saw, that was hot.” Jinwoo brushed his thumb against your cheek. He bent down and kissed the top of your head.

You flinched and pushed him away from you, “What! What was that?!”

Jinwoo chuckled, “A kiss. I thought you accepted my confession when you came back.”

“I did but…” Your cheek flushed, “That was… sudden… and soft…” Your eyes looked to the side then back at him but then to the side again, “I… like of… kind it…” A pause of silence allowed you to replay what you said and you turned red. “I… I mean!!”

Jinwoo laughed aloud.

You pushed him away fully, crossing your arms as you hovered over the ground. “Fine. Laugh all you want, you jerk! An idiot!”

Jinwoo turned away for a bit, composing himself. “I’m—” He snickered, “I’m not… Hehe… I’m not laughing at you.”

“Sure you’re not.” You rolled your eyes, yet a faint smile was on your face. Your expression fell as you felt a shift in space, then your vision turned black.

When Jinwoo turned back around, you were gone.

Your presence.

It’s gone.

Entirely gone.

“Find them.” Jinwoo’s voice dropped to a terrifying octave. The shadows around him spread out and leapt in all directions. All were eager to fulfil their master’s command, but at the same time, mortified to stay a second longer and be on the receiving end of their master’s fury. “No matter what. Find and bring the Monarch of Void My Love to me!”

Manhwa Chapters: 166

Note: Things are getting heated~~ I think you guys know who's appearing next since it's the last one. That part's a bit longer, but ye. I added a bit of details here and there. This series' ending soon~~

𝕮𝖎𝖗𝖈𝖊 𝖄.

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circeyoru · 23 hours ago

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Shadow and Void _ Part 18: Act of Love

[Yandere!Sung Jinwoo x Enemy Monarch!Reader]

Arc 1: Part 1 ― Part 2 ― Part 3 Arc 2: Part 4 ― Part 5 Arc 3: Part 6 ― Part 7 Arc 4: Part 8 ― Part 9 ― Part 10 ― Part 11 ― Special Arc 5: Part 12 ― Part 13 ― Part 14 ― Part 15 Arc 6: Part 16 ― Part 17 ― Part 18 (here) Epilogue (links will be updated when the last part is out)

Your eyes opened to darkness until flames lit up the space you were sent to. Before you was a throne and sat atop this throne was the strongest Monarch before you met Ashborn that day, the Monarch that you have been obeying and serving without denial or hesitation. Once, you thought that would be your beginning and end, until Ashborn came to your life and made you, you. Now this Monarch of Destruction before you was just a reminder of the past—The hollow shell of a person you once were.

“Make your oath.” Antares, the Monarch of Destruction and King of Dragons, commanded. As firm and unyielding as ever, the same as you remember, unchanging. This was the Monarch that commanded every one of you under him with an iron fist. Ashborn may have threatened his place for a moment, but he used you to crush what made you aware and alive. Crushing your spirit and will so that he could control you like before.

Not anymore. Without Ashborn, you found someone else to anchor you. This time, Antares was late in destroying your pillar. He can’t destroy Jinwoo, he can’t destroy you. He doesn’t get to control you and use your abilities any longer. This time, you’re not letting Antares take away someone special to you, all because of intimidation. The Monarch of Destruction no longer has a hold over the Monarch of Void, the very being of Space.

“Really? The first thing you say to me is this after so long?” You pouted.

“You could have stayed by my side all this time, yet you chose the human realm.” Antares growled at you, “So. Make. Your. Oath.”

You blinked at him with disinterest, your gaze shifted to the ground. For a moment, you wondered if your time with Jinwoo was worth anything. This was it; there was no going back once this was done. Love… Love to the point of dying for someone. If Jinwoo gets to live from your actions, it’s worth it.

“If my dying can help you, then I’ll gladly do it.”

Your indifferent expression didn’t change, you sighed and put a hand under your throat, on your chest, “This oath I hereby stake, a foreshadow of the future to come.” Your power surged and a series of aura waves radiated from your form. “I, Monarch of Void, vow on my being as a Monarch; Antares, Monarch of Destruction, will not fall.”

“Your oath changed. Did you try to escape it?” Antares’ glare hardened while you merely shrugged and calmed your powers down. “Don’t think you can escape with your life if you go back on your word.”

“Who knows what a selfish and self-centered Monarch like me want, right?” You gave him a carefree closed-eye smile, your eyes peeked open to stare at his unmoving stature, “I know better than anyone what happens if an oath isn’t carried out.” Your smile stretched to a grin as your hand raised to your lips in a shush motion, “Won’t I just… cease to exist?”

Antares’ eyes narrowed at your words. “But you, who only care for your own survival, won’t be foolish enough to allow that to happen.”

You hummed, holding your hands behind your back, your form turned to mist as you left the Monarch, “Well, you know me best. We have been together since the beginning anyway~”

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Materializing in Jinwoo’s room, you collapsed on his bed and groaned. Your eyes drooped as you screamed into his pillow. Once you inhaled, you jolted and turned your head sideways. Jinwoo’s scent. His scent is here, all around this room. Your eyes scanned your surroundings, Jinwoo’s bed, Jinwoo’s clothes, Jinwoo’s desk, Jinwoo’s home.

You briefly thought about protecting this place from the war and destruction, but wouldn’t it be easier if you realized yourself as a Monarch and placed them in your realm? You can reconstruct every little detail of this apartment and have them live there. As quickly as that idea came, you shook your head to reject it. If you fall, they’ll be in limbo, never living and never dying. So the only option is protecting them within this space that is their home.

With a goal in mind, you got up and had your mist covering the entire room. Then the mist slipped out from the cracks to cover the rest of the apartment. Jinwoo treasures his family and so do you. His mother and sister treated you with kindness that eerily reminded you of Kora. So you protect them and this space for Jinwoo and yourself. Your fingers snapped, the mist seeped into the floor, walls and ceiling. As long as they reside in this apartment, nothing will threaten them. Not even Antares or his soldiers’ forces.

“There you are…” Arms wrapped around your waist so abruptly that you flinched from the contact. Though the familiar voice made you relax instantly. You turned your head and saw Jinwoo leaning down to place his forehead on your shoulder, his shoulders and stiff body relaxed. His body weight shifted to falling backwards onto the bed, pulling you along with him. “I was looking all over for you. Why did you suddenly disappear on me?”

“It wasn’t by choice.” You lay on Jinwoo’s chest, hearing his heartbeats. You blinked and smiled, tight-lipped. Your form rotated so you’d see his cute pout. Your fingers poking at his cheek as your eyes curled into crescent moons. “The remaining Monarchs are getting desperate you see, so they called for me.” You silenced Jinwoo with a finger on his lips, “I’m not on their side, just as I wasn’t when Sillad and the others launched their attack on you.” You chuckled at his expression and booped his nose before playing with his hair. “I’m on your side. I’ve ensured that you’ll be the victor, the hero in this war.”

“You’re being…” Jinwoo couldn’t hide his blush from your closeness and brazen actions. Yet, he was also mesmerized by every little expression you made and every light touch you brushed on his skin. “Very forward.”

You smiled, bittersweet. Your thumb traced under his eye while you stared into them, seeing your reflection, spellbound by his being. Your eyes blinked quickly as you felt a tingle around your nose. “What? Preferred to me wanting to kill you now?”

“As long as your attention’s on me.” Jinwoo smiled back, holding the side of your face in his hand. When he wanted to retreat from you, you leaned into his touch. “I love you.”

“I… Love you too.” You leaned down and kissed him, on his lips as your eyes closed.

His arms pulled you down, closer to him, chest to chest, your legs between his. Deepening the kiss. You clung to him, he held you down. So this was love, this is what humans fuss around. The force that can drive one to madness and possessiveness, empowering one to do things out of character, transforming one into a different person entirely.

Can’t say you dislike this.

Knock! Knock! Knock!!!

“Jinwoo! You left the fire on!!”

You pulled away from him, both of you heaving from the lack of air for a moment. You whispered at him with a chuckle, “You were cooking?”

The man holding your heart held your cheek once more, “I thought some food could entice you to come back. Did it work?”

“I was going to return to you whether you had food or not.” You booped his nose again. You got up and hovered over the floor, “Are you done cooking?” Jinwoo rose up from the bed with a shake of his head, a knowing smile as he predicted what you would respond with. You smiled at him, “Shall we cook then?”

You two knew. This was akin to a final family dinner before the war.

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“Is that so…?” Antares’ fist tightened against his armrest on the throne. Below bowed Yogumunt, the King of Demonic Spectres and the Monarch of Transfiguration. “So the Shadow Monarch has turned against us. Very well. I’ll deal with him myself.” The pressure built as the dragons around him growled at his growing rage, his smile dangerously sharp that even Yogumunt trembled, bowing his head even lower. “But… I won’t stand for any disrespect towards the Monarch of Void’s allegiance.”

Yogumunt spoke up, “I swear, it’s the truth. The oath was made when the Monarchs of Frost, Fangs, and Plagues took action against the Shadow Monarch before his awakening. At first, the Monarch of Void was impartial, standing on the sidelines, but when…”

“Speak.”

“When the Shadow Monarch was stabbed by the Monarch of Frost and Fangs… the Monarch of Void rushed towards the Shadow Monarch, even when the Monarch of Plagues stood in the way. The Monarch of Void devoured all that came between and protected the Shadow Monarch’s corpse. It was true! An oath was made that pushed back the Monarchs, it was made… A Fragment came and the Monarch of Void… allied with him to defend the Shadow Monarch until he awakened.”

Within the Monarch of Transfiguration’s memories, your haunting form in battle struck him in his core. A form completely clouded in a dark greyish matter of mist and smoke, it looked as though you were nothing but your figure was as solid as the ground he stood on. With the wave of your hand, the soldiers of the Monarchs that rushed to take you were beaten to the ground and devoured by your mist within seconds. Your glowing eyes would blink from time to time, sometimes turning to the ongoing battle between the Shadow Monarch and the two male Monarchs of the group. You weren’t even paying attention to the Monarch of Plagues who continuously attacked you.

You moved not from your spot, you weren’t even paying attention to your safety. You, your space, had been impenetrable from the first as you stood away from the main battle. It was a miracle that you haven’t moved and devoured the Monarch of Plagues when you were fully capable of and had the chance. You only did when the Shadow Monarch was in a dire situation. The way you ignored all that came at you while rushing to his aid. The most terrifying realization hit; as a passive being, you were of no concern, yet when you who stood at the sides moved, the very fabric of space moved and bent to your will, ensuring your wish is granted and fulfilled.

Yogumunt swallowed, “The one that never picked a side, the one that betrayed the Shadow Monarch, our most valuable asset, is not on our side…” He looked up at the Monarch, “The Monarch of Void had always followed the Shadow Monarch. It was a mistake to try and break them apart! The Monarch of Void has changed!”

A dragon’s claw was brought down on Yogumnt at his declaration. Antares groaned and massaged his forehead, what a headache. He thought removing the Shadow Monarch from the equation would restore you back to what you were. A docile and obedient tool that could bring about their victory against the Rulers. Now you picked a side and even abandoned him.

“You all stay put.” Antares ordered, “To prevent further losses, the Monarch of Void must never step foot near the battlefield…”

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Jinwoo’s mother and Jinah watched as you and Jinwoo moved in harmony in the kitchen, making whatever dishes Jinwoo directed you to make without issue. Your powers levitated objects in the air like an extra pair of hands. An impressive spread of food placed on the table that looked like something out of a restaurant course.

“What do you think, mom? It’s tasty, right?” Jinah asked as she eyed her mother taste-testing the soup. His mother hummed in agreement, “I had no idea Jinwoo could cook this well, either. But maybe~” She smirked at you who took your seat with Jinwoo pushing your chair in for you before sitting down himself. “It’s cause he had some extra help~~”

“Please try every dish to your heart’s content, Mrs Sung.” You bowed your head, “It’s the least I can offer for everything you’ve done for me.”

“What nonsense,” Jinwoo’s mother lightly slapped the top of your head, “Of course you’d be welcomed in this household. My boy has been putting so much effort for you to return your feelings after all.”

You blushed, looking away while Jinwoo placed a piece of meat on top of your bowl of rice. “Well, it’s quite the catch.” You met Jinwoo’s eyes. “A pity I only recognized this late.”

“Better late than never.” Jinwoo smiled back.

Sensing something amidst, his mother asked, “Jinwoo… Is something going on?”

You eyed him while he answered nonchalantly, “What do you mean?”

His mother sighed, “Your father always used to cook like this before going on dangerous missions. They say the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, but…”

This time, Jinwoo passed a dish to his mother, denying her claims, “It’s not like that, mom.” He suddenly got up and went to the door, “Hold on. I think we have a visitor.”

“Huh? But I didn’t hear the doorbell ring.” Jinah questioned.

“A Hunter’s sense is sharp.” You smiled, casually eating. When it proved to be something Jinwoo’s must pay attention to, you covered for him. “Seems like some Hunter business as well. Jinwoo’s so busy nowadays.” You flicked your finger and got Jinwoo his coat and locked the front door after he left, “Enjoy this meal, please.”

His mother stared at you, “Aren’t you a Hunter too? Shouldn’t you go?”

“Huh? Oh, I—” Your words were caught in your throat as a pain erupted in your chest. You choked on the food and coughed, you got up and hurried to the toilet. You snapped your fingers and restored yourself to normal, you collapsed on your knees and leaned back into the wall. The backlash was worse than before, perhaps it was because the targets of your oath were both Monarchs? And the strongest too. You took a deep breath and exhaled. This is bad…

The door was knocked with urgency, then came the concerned voices of Jinah and her mother, asking if you were okay. You cleared your throat and chuckled, “It’s okay, I just ate too fast. You guys continue.”

You waited a moment until the pain subsided to stand up. You gazed over to the mirror, seeing Antares in the reflection. Your eyebrows furrowed and sighed. The reflection disappeared. You turned your head to the door of the toilet, your breath heaving. You took another deep breath and smile, composing yourself before you exited.

“Sorry, I got something to handle as well. Let Jinwoo know I’ll be with his Shadows when he’s back or I’m done with my side.” You let the mist cover your form, before you faded from their sight, you added, “Oh, and tell him not to worry about my disappearance. I’m not leaving him, yet.”

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“So… You made that vow to the new Monarch of Shadow.” Antares sighed as he stared at your unmoving form in the claws of his dragon. “So rash of you, Monarch of Void.”

You coughed out a mouthful of blood, dirtying the floor and the little remains trailed down from the corners of your lips. You chuckled in mockery, “I do not believe it was a false move. If I said so, it will come to pass. Even if you killed me.” You glared down at him, your eyes shaped in thin crescent moons and your lips formed a taunting grin. “I won’t be of use to you even if I wanted, my powers will prioritize the Monarch of Shadows’ future. Even if it does help you, it is only in the short term. In the long run, you will perish by the Monarch of Shadow’s might.”

A handful of sharp claws pierced into your flesh, Antares glared back at you as he turned his hand to claw deeper into your body. He watched as you clenched your jaw with great pain and agony. He ripped his claw out and your blood flowed like a river, he swung it with such speed and force at the blood on him splattered on the ground beside him. Your form fell forward when the dragon removed its hold of you.

Antares turned his heel and returned to his throne. “You’ve gone weak and sentimental. Like a human.”

“If weak is to break free from your control and finally find myself, then yes. I’ve gone weak, exactly like a human.” You smirked at him. Your powers healed the wounds inflicted as quickly as possible so that you could stand on your own feet once more. “How weak you are.” The glare sent at you by the Monarch of Destruction didn’t make you falter as you continued, “To rely on my oath and not your powers? You’ve gone weak as well.” You disappeared and reappeared in front of him, taunting, “Since when does the almighty Monarch of Destruction need support?”

Before he could grasp your neck, you disappeared into a mist and reappeared back in the spot he left you. “You found your voice.”

You shrugged, “Never voicing out doesn’t mean I don’t notice these things.”

His fist tightened. “Why didn’t you tell me about the oath you made for that human?”

“You didn’t ask. Also,” You hovered off the ground and sat in the air, crossing your legs and you leaned back, “Did you even give me a moment to talk things out? The second you dragged me into your realm, you demanded an oath to be made. There was no time for me to even say anything anyway.”

His sudden appearance in front of you did little to frighten and threaten you. “You will stay out of this battle. You will not help the Shadow Monarch, you will not do anything. Stay put.”

You grinned, “No worries, you don’t stand a chance. You can surrender first, I’ll pass on the message for you. As a last act of my kindness to an old friend.”

“You…”

“Yes, me.” You shrugged, “Jinwoo, the Shadow Monarch, will stand on top. He will prevail over you no matter what. It’s impossible for the world to be safe and sound if he lets you win after all. I know Jinwoo, he won’t… He’s not the type to let the world down.”

“...” Antares backed away. “He doesn’t care for you? No… He doesn’t even know what you did.”

“Doesn’t need to.” You glared at him. “What he doesn’t know won’t hurt him. I’ll stay out of your little duel with Jinwoo, but you stay out of my business.”

Antares leaned in close, “Your business, that particular business is also mine. Remember? That oath you made could be my end and I don’t want my end to be a loss.”

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The moment you reappeared in the throne room of the castle Beru and Bellion instructed everyone else to make, you were met with a bone-breaking hug―if you were a normal human that is. “Jinwoo, what a welcome.”

“Why were you gone?” You could feel his eyes glowing and glaring at you even when your face was buried in his manly chest.

“Nothing special, just giving and getting a warning from Antares, the Monarch of Destruction.” You told him truthfully. “I’m not going with you,” You cupped his face, staring into his eyes, “Is that okay?”

Jinwoo’s eyebrow furrowed cutely as you played with his face, squeezing and pulling his face with a smile. “Waiting for my good news?”

“I’ll watch your castle for you and keep your throne warm.” You hummed. Since you can’t join him or watch over him yourself, you can do something else. “Antares will thin out your support.” Mist gathered as they concentrated to make miniature dragons and what appeared to be a globe. “He’ll send his dragon forces all over the place, hoping- no, knowing that you’d have your Shadows protecting the humans. If your mana is depleted from reviving Shadows, he’ll win easily.” The mist figures devoured the globe. “You have to focus everything on Antares and only him. Make him believe you are only concern about him, like he’s the final boss.”

“Wait-”

“The Rulers will be watching the battle between you two carefully, waiting for the perfect moment to strike him down.” You pressed on, ignoring Jinwoo. You needed to tell him all you know about Antares over the centuries and more alive with him. “Antares will think defeating you is his only priority. You are humanity’s sword and shield, take that away and he’ll win. That’s his game. But your trump card is the Rulers and my spatial powers.”

“Wh-”

“I can’t join you, but I can give you a space to duke it out with him. A space where the Rulers could easily intervene at the perfect moment, a space where Antares’ senses are distorted but unknown to him, and a space where you will not fall under any circumstances, no matter how grim and hopeless it may appear.”

Jinwoo’s arms wrapped around you, shutting you off when it seem like you were done talking. He pushed the back of your head towards him, making your face squeeze against his chest. His cheek nuzzled the top of your head as he hugged you tightenly against him.

“Bellion, Igris, Beru and the others will stay with you. Protect you in case there’s an ambush or Antares tries to threaten you to help him.” Jinwoo spoke urgently, his hands moved all over you as if you’d disappear if he wasn’t holding onto you. “No harm will come to you, I swear.”

You smiled bitterly. Don’t slip, don’t let him catch wind of it. You heard his heart beating like a drum. He’s nervous just as you were emotional. “You’ll win this and the world will be at peace.” You pushed your face out of his chest, staring into his eyes. “Don’t worry,” You’re not sure who you’re even directing this to. Yourself or your love. “I’m a Monarch. I can take care of myself. How do you think I lived as long as I have?”

“That time is behind you now, you have me.” Jinwoo kissed.

“...I do.”

You kissed back as Jinwoo promised. “I’ll come back to you. I love you.”

You smiled, waving him off. “I love you more.” You’ll see.

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“You found a way to win the war, even if you were to lose the battle. It’s my complete loss for only looking at the smaller battle.” Antares spoke in utter defeat before he grinned, “But you know… You’ll lose something as well. Or perhaps someone.”

Jinwoo glared. “I won’t.”

Antares scoffed, “You ignorant fool. You have no idea what powers the Monarch of Void truly hold.”

Elsewhere, back in the castle the Shadows diligently built for their Lord and Master, you clenched your chest and doubled over from pain, falling off the throne in the process. The stationed Shadows came to your side, fidgeting over what to do to help you. You gasped and wheezed, your fingernails clawed at the stone floor, and a trails of blood followed as you dragged your hand back to your body. That pain was nothing compared to the ache in your chest. As if swords were slowly inserted into your form, a fiery burn from the inside out, an icy freeze over the tip of your limbs and the ear-piercing ringing in your ears and mind.

“Time… It’s time…” You choked out, barely. Bellion and Igris knelt to your sides while Beru had long gone to Jinwoo. “Time won’t be reversed… The Rulers… won’t allow… it… This should… be the best… outcome…” You hazily turned to the two Shadows you’ve known for so long, “An ending that Jinwoo pleases. Where the hero wins.”

“The Monarch of Void stakes the very power of space, the other half of what that [ABSOLUTE BEING] had, to make oaths that foretell the future.” Antares smiled, “The Monarch of Void loved you so to vow your victory against the other Monarchs.”

“Then that future has come true already and it’s done. What’s your problem?”

Antares laughed, coughing out a mouthful of blood in the process, “Another oath was made for me. Want to know what it was about?” He didn’t wait for Jinwoo’s response and howled, “My survivability in this world!”

“My Liege!!” Beru appeared and kneeled on his knees with his head bowed low, “The Monarch of Void! The Monarch of Void is abruptly in pain for no reason! There was no attack on the castle and no ambush!”

Jinwoo’s eyes widened in disbelief, he didn’t want you in the battle with Antares because he didn’t want you to be collateral damage. Now he…

“Wonderful. If I die, I’ll take something you treasure as well, foolish successor.” Antares mocked. Behind him, the Rulers and their soldiers had descended and aimed their spears at him to finish the deed. “However, the Monarch of Void has been my long-time friend, so it’s a shame to part in such a cruel way. So I offer you this.” The spears pierced his form from all sides, “Join hands with the Monarchs and your beloved will live.” A twisted grin of victory spread. “Make the right choice, Shadow Monarch.”

Your eyes widened as you heard only your heartbeat from the vessel you possessed. Time seemed to have slowed down as your eyes drooped and your body let go of any and all resistance to ease the painful torture. It didn’t matter whether Bellion or Igris caught you before your head touched the ground or if you lay there limp on the ground. Because your form separated from your vessel and it turned cold, your misty figure floated before Bellion and Igris who stared at you with a look you couldn’t quite understand. You gave them one smile and you were blown away.

This was the love you had for Jinwoo. Enough to neglect your own survival for his happy end. Just as your vessel loved you enough to sacrifice herself for you, you love this soul called Sung Jinwoo enough to sacrifice yourself for him. I love you, Jinwoo.

“I will-” This wasn’t a suggestion to the Rulers, this was an order. “I need to go back in time.” Jinwoo felt it in his soul. The emptiness that hit it harder than any attack from any foe, the coldness that froze his hearts over quicker than any icy environment, and the lost that came with it all. He knew. He knew that you were gone. “I will save what I have lost.”

Manhwa Chapter: 167, 168, 177

Note: Done~ This is the final part. The epilogue is the real ending, but that part's a bit too short to be an actual chapter, so I just moved it to that. Hehe. I think this is the second time I killed Reader, huh? Oh well~ Penny for your thoughts?

𝕮𝖎𝖗𝖈𝖊 𝖄.

My Works: MASTERLIST *(regarding requests, check the Masterlist to see if it’s opened or not and other info related before sending one. Thanks.)

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