The Tokyo Public Devil Hunter HQ was in chaos. The meeting room, once pristine, now had an exposed wall due to the massive blast caused by the Falling Devil's earlier rampage. Inside, the atmosphere was tense, made heavier by the crushing gravity emanating from Doom Eye—a powerful extension of Kang Woo's presence.
Fami, the Famine Devil, along with Fumiko and Yoshida, were pinned to the floor, unable to move under the immense pressure. Meanwhile, Himeno sat comfortably on the ground, hugging one of Doom Eye's tentacles as though it were a plushie. She absentmindedly chewed on another tentacle, her expression utterly unconcerned.
Beside her, Aki gave her a baffled look. "Himeno-senpai… are you so hungry that you're chewing on that starfish monster?"
Himeno paused, glancing at him with a smirk. "I'm starving. And besides, Makima's not here to steal it from me, so why not?"
Doom Eye shifted its gaze toward her, its voice reverberating like an echo from another dimension. "If you get diarrhea, that's your shit to deal with, not mine."
Aki rubbed his temples in exasperation, then turned his gaze toward Doom Eye. "Since you and Kang Woo are basically the same entity, what should we even call you?"
The massive eye blinked lazily, its presence oppressive yet oddly casual. "You can call me Doom Eye if it suits you. But Kang Woo works just fine, too."
Himeno took another bite of the tentacle, completely unfazed by the surreal exchange, while the rest of the room remained frozen under Doom Eye's crushing gravity.
The absurdity of the situation was almost comedic, but the tension remained palpable as the rest of the room's occupants lay frozen under the crushing gravity. The ministers and Prime Minister Kentaro, present in the meeting, dared not speak, their fear of Doom Eye outweighing their indignation.
For a brief moment, Kentaro's gaze flickered toward Fami, the Famine Devil, whose reputation had once inspired hope. Now, pinned to the ground like a helpless child, she was a far cry from the being the government had hoped would bring Makima under control. Their greatest trump card, the Falling Devil, lay defeated as well, reducing even their faintest hope to despair.
Finally, Prime Minister Kentaro broke the silence, his voice trembling but filled with frustration. "Do you two"—he pointed at Himeno and Aki—"even realize what you've done to Tokyo? The city is in ruins because of your 'fight' with Homelander! And now, some nobody named Kang Woo?!"
His voice cracked with anger. "We've already suffered enough penalties since World War II, and now you let a maniac damage Vought's property? Do you have any idea what kind of repercussions this will have?!"
Himeno lazily bit off another chunk of Doom Eye's tentacle, unbothered by the Prime Minister's rant. She leaned back against the tentacle she hugged and quipped, "Relax. Kang Woo's the one causing all the trouble, not us."
Aki, sighing deeply, muttered under his breath, "At least the city's still standing… for now."
The news channel in the room flickered to life. The anchor's voice was sharp, and the words on the screen demanded attention: BREAKING NEWS.
The broadcast showed chaotic scenes of Tokyo, battered and torn apart. The camera panned over the massive destruction, before cutting to an eyewitness interview. The reporter's voice carried the weight of the unfolding disaster.
"Reports are flooding in of an extraordinary battle that has left the city of Tokyo in ruins. Eyewitnesses describe the scene: the leader of The Seven, Homelander, has been defeated—chased by a storm of thousands of glowing red spears. Observers recount a massive construct resembling spider legs, closing like a giant Venus flytrap, causing destruction over a 200-meter radius. The name of the individual responsible?"
The anchor paused for dramatic effect, the name appearing in bold text across the screen.
"Kang Woo."
The footage shifted to aerial shots of Tokyo, showing the sheer scale of the damage. The anchor's voice grew heavier.
"As Homelander struggled to recover, members of The Seven arrived to provide backup. However, their efforts seemed to backfire. Witnesses report that, as the team assembled to confront Kang Woo and the former Devil Hunter Commander Makima, they were suddenly seized by a colossal six-fingered arm. The arm reportedly pulled them into some kind of dimensional rift, leaving no trace. Their current status is unknown."
The screen filled with static for a moment before cutting to a somber panel of analysts. One of them spoke urgently. "This is an unprecedented event. The Seven are considered untouchable, yet they've been removed from play entirely. Kang Woo… Whoever or whatever he is, has redefined the global power scale overnight."
The screen faded to live images of Tokyo, still smoking, with emergency services struggling to respond.
Himeno took another casual bite of Doom Eye's tentacle, chewing thoughtfully. "Sounds about right," she remarked, her tone casual as if she were discussing a weather update. "I mean, Kang Woo doesn't do things halfway."
Aki rubbed his temples, exasperated. "You're really not helping, Himeno-senpai."
Prime Minister Kentaro, pale with shock, staggered back into his seat. His lips trembled, unable to form coherent words. "This… This is madness. He's a monster. They're monsters."
Suddenly, the room's tension was disrupted as Nue, the colossal Shikigami, descended outside the meeting room's exposed wall. Its enormous wings beat powerfully as it carried Kishibe and Kobeni, setting them down inside with ease.
Kobeni stumbled to her feet, her legs shaky. "This is the second time I've been flying. Still terrifying," she muttered, clutching her stomach.
Kishibe stretched, unbothered by the dramatic entrance. "Hoooh, Kang Woo carried you, huh? Must've been on his dark comet. By the way, I'm Kishibe—the old dog of the Devil Hunter corps. My fangs are getting dull, but I'm still kicking."
Kobeni perked up at the mention of Kang Woo. "I'm Kobeni! Kang Woo loves my cooking and always praises me with his lovely voice. That's why I love him and strive to be the best cook for him!" she declared proudly, as if her words were fact.
Aki blinked at the odd pair. "Mr. Kishibe, where is Kang Woo? And Ms. Makima? Also…" He gestured toward Nue. "What's with the giant chimera bird?"
Kishibe yawned, scratching the back of his head. "Ask Kang Woo. I'm just along for the ride. All I wanted was to settle the score with Stormfront and die peacefully. But Kang Woo? That bastard healed me up and outright refused to let me die. What a pain in the ass." He lit a cigarette, shaking his head with a tired grin.
Himeno chuckled, leaning further into Doom Eye's tentacle. "Yeah, sounds like Kang Woo."
The Falling Devil, still pinned to the floor by Doom Eye's immense gravity, rasped out, her voice trembling with anger and confusion. "The human… named Kishibe. Why is there a monster here? A creature that shouldn't have been summoned or brought to this world?"
Kishibe raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued. "What are you talking about?" he replied sarcastically, blowing a puff of smoke. "You're making no sense, lady."
"Don't fool me!" the Falling Devil snapped. "There's no one in this world who could command the Hell Devil like that. Let alone make it guard someone so loyally. It severed my own connection to Hell! That's impossible!"
Aki, standing nearby, felt a chill run down his spine. His thoughts raced. Kang Woo is really that infamous? Even a primal devil fears him? Aki's understanding of primal devils was deeper than most. After his defeat at Kang Woo's hands, he had been forced to witness how the Demon King operated—unveiling not just overwhelming power but meticulous planning, with a thousand contingencies for every enemy. Determined not to remain in the dark, Aki had spent countless hours researching primal devils, scouring archives, and occasionally seeking insights from Kishibe or other former comrades. Even Yoshida, who was now pinned helplessly under Doom Eye's crushing gravity, had been a source of useful information.
Meanwhile, the Famine Devil, still pinned by the same oppressive force, silently reflected. The Falling Devil… She's revealing more than she should. My knowledge of Hell is incomplete. What's really happening there? Her thoughts churned with uncertainty, a rare occurrence for the usually composed entity.
Suddenly, the meeting room door slid open, and all eyes turned toward it. The already tense atmosphere grew heavier as Makima stepped inside, her single dark wing folded neatly behind her. Her presence radiated a quiet but undeniable authority, making even the primal devils flinch.
"Shouldn't you be flying in with that single dark wing Kang Woo gifted you? Where's he, anyway? Shouldn't he be attached to your hip?" Kishibe quipped, lazily exhaling a puff of smoke, his tone laced with sarcasm.
Makima's gaze swept over the room, her expression unreadable but no less commanding. "I've grown accustomed to using doors in meeting rooms. Old habits tend to stick," she replied smoothly. Pausing for a beat, she added, "Kang Woo will catch up. He has his own pace."
The Falling Devil suddenly broke the silence, her voice trembling with anger and fear. "Control Devil! What have you done by summoning that thing? The world is ending! Even Hell is no longer a safe haven for us! If you want to die so badly, don't drag the rest of us—and this world—down with you!"
Inwardly, Makima mused, The wing behind my back must have triggered some kind of trauma in her. It's amusing how even a primal devil can break so easily.
Kishibe, observing the exchange, silently reflected, I always thought Makima was the most dangerous entity I'd ever encountered. I prepared every anti-squad and strategy I could think of, just in case she turned against us. But it seems I was wrong. The mysterious man I met that day—Kang Woo—when he brought two corpses of devils to sell, along with his wares, including Compound V, is far more terrifying.
Kang Woo doesn't just command high-grade devils—he's something else entirely. The current him… I get the sense that no power in this world—be it devils or supes—can harm him. It's a stark contrast to when I first met him. Back then, I was confident I could handle him. But now? The current Kang Woo feels like a threat to everyone. His power has grown far too fast.
There's something I need to learn about him—something crucial.
Meanwhile, the Famine Devil remained silent, her eyes flickering with unease as she watched her enslaved companion's outburst. Her thoughts churned. The Falling Devil… she's more terrified of a man rumored to have saved Makima in Aokigahara Forest than anything else. Kang Woo… just what kind of being are you?
The Famine Devil leaned slightly toward the Falling Devil and whispered, "My slave, I have a plan to escape—"
But the Falling Devil suddenly shouted, her voice trembling with desperation, "DON'T DO ANYTHING UNNECESSARY! Don't antagonize him! I'm sorry! Please… let me die!"
Her words sent a wave of unease through the room, making the tension even more suffocating.
In Makima's mind, the pieces began to fall into place. Either Kang Woo blew off a part of the uppermost layer of Hell in the past, or he used reality-warping abilities. Either way, his status as the Demon King is becoming more widely known.
Her lips curled into a faint smile. And I couldn't be happier. My King's infamy is spreading across the world.
Suddenly, the sky above the meeting room erupted with golden brilliance. A massive axe materialized, its radiant glow like a miniature sun piercing through the darkest sky —the Divine Axe Rhitta, a symbol of overwhelming power.
Within 50 meters of the exposed meeting room, reality itself cracked and shattered like fragile glass. From the fractured void, a gate formed, its swirling energy connecting the location directly to the Millennium Castle on the moon.
Kang Woo emerged, his presence heralded by a dark platform forming in the air beneath him. The very air seemed to recognize him, bending to his will as if acknowledging the King's approach.
Aki watched, his heart pounding. The man I wanted to ask for guidance… to teach me… to help me achieve my revenge against the Gun Devil.
Himeno, letting go of Doom Eye's tentacle, smirked in her usual casual demeanor. Always making an entrance, right, Kang Woo?
Doom Eye, as if instinctively drawn to him, hurriedly returned to Kang Woo and reabsorbed itself into his form, its tentacles merging seamlessly as part of his being.
Kishibe, standing in stunned silence, watched the unfolding scene with a cigarette loosely hanging from his lips, his hand frozen mid-motion. This is too much. This… this changes everything.
The Famine Devil, still pinned to the ground, couldn't suppress the growing unease in her thoughts. There he is. The one spoken of by the Falling Devil.
The Falling Devil herself trembled even more violently, unable to even glance at the figure descending like a harbinger of doom.
Suddenly, there was a snap—a sound that echoed unnaturally, like the unraveling of chains. Fumiko, Yoshida, the Famine Devil, and even the Falling Devil were released from the immense gravity pinning them to the floor. They stumbled, confusion etched across their faces.
"Why… why did he let us go?" Yoshida muttered, his usually calm demeanor shaken as he steadied himself.
Fumiko instinctively reached for her weapon, her hand trembling as she aimed it toward Himeno. Before she could pull the trigger, Yoshida grabbed her wrist firmly. "Don't," he hissed, his voice low and tense. "You do that, and Japan will cease to exist in an instant."
Fumiko hesitated, the weight of his words sinking in. She lowered her weapon reluctantly, her gaze flickering between Yoshida and Kang Woo.
Kang Woo walked across the dark platform, each step radiating an aura of authority that seemed to command the very air around him. The people of Tokyo, watching from below, were paralyzed by terror. Their wide eyes reflected the faint, chilling smile on Kang Woo's face—a smile that promised both power and devastation.
The Famine Devil, Fami, forced herself to stand, her movements rigid with apprehension. She glanced at her slave, the Falling Devil, who remained bowing low to the ground, her trembling form unwilling to rise or even look up. A primal devil like the Falling Devil… paralyzed with fear, not even daring to look at him? I must find out what this being truly is.
Kang Woo's deliberate descent seemed endless, each step amplifying the suffocating tension in the air. When he finally reached his destination, silence hung heavy in the room.
Without hesitation, Makima dropped to one knee, bowing her head deeply. "Welcome, my King," she said, her voice unwavering and filled with reverence.
Kang Woo reached out, placing a hand on Makima's head and ruffling her hair casually, almost affectionately. "You don't need to bow, Makima," he said with a calm yet firm tone. "You invited me here to this meeting room, right ? Let's get this over with—I'm busy figuring out how to properly use Almighty before it misfires again."
Makima rose gracefully, a faint smile on her lips as she replied, "As you wish, my King."
Fami's eyes widened at the sight. Makima… My sister, the embodiment of Control itself, one of the Four Horsemen, bowing to him without question? What kind of power does he hold to command such loyalty?
Makima, sensing Fami's inner turmoil, turned toward her with a faint smile. "In your thoughts now, Fami, you must be wondering why someone like me, the Control Devil, follows him so loyally," she said, her tone calm but teasing.
Fami immediately shook her head in denial. "I didn't think that!" she snapped, her voice sharper than intended.
Makima's smile grew slightly. "Don't lie, my dear sister. Your face—"
Before Makima could finish, Kang Woo interrupted, his tone decisive. "Alright, that's enough, both of you. Everyone is out of topics and forcing things into my hands now." He turned to Aki, his crimson eyes locking onto him. "First, let's handle Aki's problem."
Kang Woo's gaze remained steady as he addressed Aki. "Aki, I'm going to be very blunt with you—no secret codes or cryptic hints. You've been too hasty. Why couldn't you wait until the adult-compatible Compound V was ready? I gave my word to Kishibe that once it was finished, you'd have the strength to take on both supes and mid-grade devils."
Aki's fists clenched tightly, his frustration etched across his face. "The power you wield is immense, far beyond anything I've ever seen. I can't afford to wait until the Compound V is finished. My lifespan is already thin, Kang Woo. Too many contracts, too much strain… I don't have the luxury of time."
Prime Minister Kentaro, watching silently, thought to himself, Isn't Compound V a Vought product? How could someone steal it from them? Or… is this man capable of creating it on his own? His unease deepened as he contemplated the implications.
Kang Woo's expression didn't change as he addressed the unspoken thoughts in the room. "My power doesn't come from this world, that's for sure. You all need to widen your gaze. And after this, you'll have a lot of blood on your hands—not that I mind, though. Before this, I just finished blackmailing the world itself."
Aki didn't flinch. "I don't care. I just want the power to take revenge against the Gun Devil."
Kang Woo smirked, his tone shifting slightly. "Welcome aboard."
He turned to Himeno. "And you? Gonna stick with Aki through this?"
Himeno gave a casual shrug, chewing on the last bit of Doom Eye's tentacle. "Yeah. Someone's gotta keep him alive. By the way, your starfish monster tastes like takoyaki."
Kang Woo's eyes narrowed slightly, his voice filled with mock warning. "Don't eat that next time. You'll get diarrhea."
Without missing a beat, Kang Woo turned his attention to the Hell Devil, who manifested in its centaur-like form, its fiery mane flickering ominously. "Hell Devil," Kang Woo commanded, his voice calm but authoritative.
The Hell Devil bowed its head low. "Yes, Noble One."
Kang Woo extended his hand, and with a swift motion, he broke two of his own fingers. Crimson blood began to pour from the wounds, but his expression remained unfazed. The Hell Devil moved quickly, summoning a jar-like construct to carefully contain the precious blood.
"As promised," Kang Woo said, his voice steady. "More will come depending on your performance. For now, I've awarded you 50 grams of my blood."
The Hell Devil bowed even lower, its voice filled with reverence. "Thank you, Noble One, for keeping your promise. Your blood is a gift beyond compare."
The room remained steeped in silence, its occupants too stunned to speak. Even Fami and the Falling Devil, both recovering from their earlier ordeal, couldn't mask their unease at the sheer authority Kang Woo exuded. He seemed untouchable, every movement calculated and commanding. Makima stood nearby, her faint smile betraying nothing but satisfaction as she watched her King once again assert his dominance.
Kang Woo raised his hand casually. "Authority of Gates." A swirling portal materialized, connecting the room to a rooftop on an adjacent building where the Angel Devil stood on guard, their serene expression unchanged despite the sudden opening of a gateway.
Before Angel Devil could react, Kang Woo's power pulled them through the portal and into the meeting room. "I could have made it here on my own, you know."
Kang Woo's smirk was sharp, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "Fly? With those wings? They're just for decoration. And as for running, you don't seem like the type. You'd have taken forever."
Angel Devil sighed, brushing off the insult. "As long as you keep your promise, I don't care how I got here."
Kang Woo's expression turned slightly more serious. "Oh, I'll keep it. But not here. Your reward involves delving into your deepest memories, and it's not something I intend to do in front of an audience. For now, you'll need to wait."
The Angel Devil tilted their head slightly, their tone resigned but accepting. "Fine. Just make sure you don't break your word."
Kang Woo ignored the devil's subtle skepticism, turning his attention toward Kishibe. With a wave of his wrist, he tossed a small vial across the room. Kishibe caught it effortlessly, examining the label, which read Extremis Serum 1.0.
"For emergencies only," Kang Woo said casually. "It'll last for 24 hours, and for now, it's only compatible with someone as durable as you."
Kishibe raised an eyebrow, his tone laced with sarcasm. "Aren't you a multitasker? Blowing up half of Tokyo and New York while still managing to whip up this complicated drug? What's next—curing diseases on the side?"
Kang Woo smirked, unfazed by the jab. "A magician keeps his secrets, and an alchemist always has wares. Now, if you're done marveling at my efficiency, we've got more pressing matters to discuss ."
Kishibe chuckled, slipping the vial into his pocket. "Noted. I'll save it for when the world's really going to hell… which, with you around, might be sooner than later." His tone shifted slightly as he added, "Is this the promise you made? The Supe Program that Japan will have? The drugs that will be used for every Public Safety Devil Hunter personnel? The Extremis 1.0—does it have any side effects if someone other than me uses it?"
Kang Woo's expression didn't change, but his tone grew slightly more serious. "Still working on the kinks. However, no human—except hybrids—has the durability to handle it like you do. For example…" He gestured toward Yoshida, who stiffened at the mention of his name. "If he were to use it, he'd either become permanently disabled—or, worst-case scenario, he'd explode like a bomb."
Yoshida's eyes widened, and he instinctively stepped back, muttering under his breath, "That's one hell of a risk…"
Kishibe gave a low whistle, smirking as he pocketed the vial. "Noted. I'll make sure no one else gets their hands on this unless they're ready to gamble with their life. Thanks for the heads-up."
Before Kang Woo could respond, Prime Minister Kentaro slammed his desk with a loud THUD, his face twisting in anger. "Why the fuck does no one tell me about this?! If this happens, Japan will have ground against Vought itself! I wouldn't be stuck in this pathetic position, scrambling for control!" His voice rose with every word, dripping with frustration and self-centered indignation.
He pointed a trembling finger at Makima, Himeno, Aki, and Kishibe. "And you—all of you—are traitors to this country! How dare you not stop this Korean man, Kang Woo, from causing mayhem in Tokyo?! This isn't my fault! You should have done your jobs! Instead, you let him destroy everything while I'm left to clean up the mess!"
Kang Woo's eyes narrowed slightly, his expression unreadable, but he said nothing aloud. Instead, his telepathic voice reached Makima's mind, calm yet carrying a hint of annoyance. Switch places with me. You handle this old man. I might accidentally kill him if I keep talking.
Makima glanced at Kang Woo, her gaze briefly meeting his. She nodded imperceptibly and replied telepathically, Understood, my King. Her tone carried both respect and a subtle amusement. Though, judging by your gaze, it seems your attention is elsewhere… perhaps on your system window?
Kang Woo didn't react visibly, but his eyes flicked briefly to an invisible point in the air—his shop inventory, visible only to him, filled with items that reflected his growing power and accomplishments.
Makima continued in the same mental connection, her tone teasing yet obedient. Since you've shown me how this world grades all of us with levels, and considering how we just picked a fight with the world and blackmailed it, don't hog all the rewards for yourself, my King. Her words carried a light humor, but the respect was unmistakable.
Kang Woo's lips curled into a faint smirk, but he remained silent, allowing Makima to step forward. She turned to face Prime Minister Kentaro, her composed demeanor a stark contrast to his furious ranting. The Control Devil was now fully in charge of the conversation.
As Makima approached the Prime Minister, a faint whisper of laughter escaped from the other side of the room. It was Fami, the Famine Devil, who had been watching the interaction with curiosity and disdain. She leaned slightly forward, her sharp eyes fixed on Makima. "How far the mighty have fallen," Fami said, her tone dripping with mockery. "The Control Devil, once feared and revered, now at the mercy of a human. Tell me, sister, what's so special about this Kang Woo that he can leash you so easily? Or… is it you who leashed yourself willingly?"
Fami's words carried a calculated venom, her intent clear: to provoke Makima or Kang Woo into revealing something about their connection. She wanted to understand what made this human so extraordinary that her sister, the embodiment of control, had bent the knee.
Makima's expression remained serene, her eyes unblinking as she turned slightly toward Fami. "Fami," she said in her usual calm tone, a faint smile gracing her lips. "It's fascinating how you mistake loyalty for weakness. A rare lapse in judgment for you."
Fami narrowed her eyes, unfazed by Makima's composed demeanor. "Loyalty? To a human? Don't insult me, sister. I'm merely observing what has become of the once-proud Control Devil. If this Kang Woo is so special, then show me. Prove it."
Makima's smile didn't waver, but her voice carried an unmistakable edge. "Prove it? Fami, dear sister, you've already seen it. Your trembling companion, the Falling Devil, speaks volumes of what Kang Woo is. Yet, you think yourself immune to the same fear."
Suddenly, the air itself seemed to stop, like the pause between heartbeats.
THUMP.
Time resumed.
The Falling Devil let out a blood-curdling scream as the upper half of her body was obliterated in an instant.
"AAAAARRRRRGGGHHHHHH!"
Behind her, the wall of the room had been completely shattered, revealing a massive five-kilometer crater now scarring Tokyo's landscape. The devastation was undeniable, and all eyes turned toward Kang Woo.
His presence was more terrifying than ever, and his gaze commanded attention as everyone noticed the change: two pupils now sat in each of Kang Woo's crimson eyes, exuding an aura of untouchable authority.
Aki instinctively stepped back, his face pale. Is this Kang Woo's doing? he thought, his fists trembling. I was ready to stain my hands with blood, but this… this is too much.
Himeno, usually so carefree, froze in place, her thoughts spiraling. Oy… oy… oy… oy… why does Kang Woo look more like a monster now? Her cheerful façade was replaced with quiet horror.
Fumiko, staring at the devastation, couldn't stop the wave of relief washing over her. Thank God Yoshida stopped me from shooting Himeno. If I'd taken that shot, I'd be next. I'd be nothing but dust by now.
Yoshida, ever the strategist, kept his composure outwardly but couldn't suppress his internal dread. Not just Japan… If this escalates, the entire world could be destroyed by this monster.
Prime Minister Kentaro, previously loud and defiant, now sat in stunned silence. His bravado had evaporated completely, his mouth dry as he stared at Kang Woo.
Fami, the Famine Devil, gulped hard, her normally composed expression cracking. In her mind, fear crept in like a relentless tide. I finally understand my slave's submission to fear. I feel it now too. This isn't normal—this is fate itself deciding to kill me. Her body trembled as if reacting to an unseen force.
Breaking the tense silence, Makima let out a soft chuckle, her usual composure intact. "Is that what you meant earlier when you said one of your abilities… misfired, Kang Woo?"
Kang Woo turned his gaze toward her, the corners of his mouth twitching into a faint smirk. "More like a large AoE effect, in game language," he replied casually. "And yeah, the collateral damage is pretty steep."
Without acknowledging the terrified gazes fixed on him, Kang Woo shifted his focus inward, scanning his shop inventory for the item he sought. His demeanor suggested indifference to the destruction he had caused, as if this level of devastation was no more than a passing inconvenience.
A sudden sound of wheels creaking broke the tension further. Tadashi Hasegawa, the former Minister of Finance, moved forward in a wheelchair. Despite his frailty, his eyes gleamed with a malevolence and influence that even surpassed the Prime Minister's. Known for his ruthless pragmatism, Tadashi's presence alone shifted the atmosphere.
Fixing his gaze on Makima, he spoke, his voice carrying a chilling calm. "Makima, I'm here to welcome you back to the Bureau of the Government. You will lead all of Japan. The contracts you once wielded, the ones that made you invincible—they can be yours again. Your companion is powerful, yes, but the world is vast. And this world, my dear, runs on money and influence. Rules must be followed, and only someone with your... talents can ensure our nation's survival in such times." His words dripped with temptation, a calculated offer that blended flattery and opportunity.
Makima turned her gaze to him, a sharp glint in her eyes. Her lips curled into a mocking smile as she leaned slightly forward. "Fucking old man," she said, her voice laced with sarcasm. "Are you senile now? You're offering this to a criminal who just destroyed Tokyo, created a five-kilometer crater, and plunged the country into chaos. And you're hailing me as your next Prime Minister? What's next, old man ? Knighthood for Kang Woo?"
Suddenly, Prime Minister Kentaro broke down, unable to hold back his tears. His voice quivered with emotion as he pointed an accusing finger at Kang Woo. "My people... they died recklessly because you wanted to show off your power, right? Kang Woo!" His voice cracked, but he pushed on, desperation etched into his every word. "I only do this for the people of Japan! All of it—for the people of Japan! The severed contract that left Makima to die at Aokigahara Forest... the sacrifices I had to make, the ones I ordered to cover my tracks..." His voice lowered into a near whisper, but the weight of his confession was deafening. "Aki, Himeno, Kishibe... all of them were meant to be sacrificed. It was all for the greater good."
The room fell silent as the weight of his words sank in. Even the devils and primal devil in attendance shifted uneasily.
Kang Woo, who had been quietly focused on his shop inventory, suddenly snapped his fingers . His two-pupil eyes turned to Prime Minister Kentaro, their crimson glow radiating an aura of overwhelming authority.
"Normally," Kang Woo began, his voice low but laced with a chilling edge, "I don't give a shit about people's rants or their sanctimonious justifications. But that phrase—'greater good,' huh?" He paused, his tone turning almost contemplative. "Looks like the body of Peter January I inhabit is starting to affect me a bit."
The atmosphere shifted as Kang Woo's words carried an ominous weight. The already darkened sky and the shine of divine axe rhitta , dimmed by his immense power, now transformed. Eldritch abominations began to emerge, their grotesque forms writhing in chaotic shapes, blotting out what little light remained. Tentacled monstrosities, some resembling Cthulhu-like creatures, stretched their alien appendages across the skyline, their grotesque presence exuding pure chaos.
The Prime Minister's bravado evaporated entirely, his knees buckling as he stared in horror at the creatures above. The eldritch horrors seemed to reflect Kang Woo's inner state—a manifestation of his disdain for the notion of "greater good" and the pitiful self-righteousness of those who wielded it as justification.
Makima's gaze flicked to Kang Woo, a faint smile tugging at her lips as she observed the escalating chaos. "Well," she murmured, her voice carrying a teasing edge. "I suppose that's one way to set the tone for the conversation."
The eldritch sky above seemed to pulse in rhythm with Kang Woo's overwhelming power, an unspoken warning to all present that no justification, no "greater good," would ever be enough to stand against him.
The eldritch sky created by Kang Woo began to shift and descend. The grotesque, writhing entities above—a mass of thousand mouths and eyes—latched onto Prime Minister Kentaro and Tadashi Hasegawa, the former Minister of Finance. With horrifying precision, the entities consumed the two men, their mouths tearing into their flesh while their countless eyes stared unblinking, reflecting their agony.
But death refused to grant them release. Their bodies remained intact, mangled yet alive, as if some cruel cosmic force denied them the solace of an end. The abominations chewed endlessly, devouring their victims over and over, their screams muffled into guttural noises:
"Hurrggggg!"
"Hooouurrrghh!"
The room was frozen in terror, every spectator unable to move or look away from the horrific scene.
Kang Woo's crimson eyes, now adorned with two pupils each, glowed malevolently, while his sclera darkened into a void-like black. With a wave of his hand, he conjured a dark throne, forged from twisting shadows and pulsating with an aura of pure malice. He sat upon it, his presence exuding dominance and fear, as though he were the very embodiment of an unrelenting nightmare.
As he leaned forward slightly, his voice echoed with a deep, resonant power that seemed to seep into the very bones of those present. "In every realm—this world, the deepest pits of Hell, even across the fabric of existence—there is always a cause, a justification that living beings cling to. A cause they believe justifies their actions. But let me tell you…"
His gaze pierced through the writhing forms of Kentaro and Tadashi as they continued to be devoured. "Sacrificing one life—or a dozen—for the so-called betterment of the whole? It is the most pathetic excuse I have ever heard. Weakness, cowardice, or reckless desperation, that's all it is. And your reasoning, your attempts to cling to this justification… it disgusts me."
Kang Woo's voice turned darker, almost venomous. "This planet, this existence, clings to survival at the cost of everything else. Fear of death, fear of the unknown, and the ultimate fear—the Death Devil."
His eyes, already unnatural with two pupils, began to forcibly twist and turn within their sockets.
Glukhuuk.
The sound of the grotesque transformation echoed in the silent room as his eyes evolved into three-pupil , the dark sclera amplifying the sense of menace. Blood began to seep from the corners of his eyes, trailing down his cheeks. Yet, despite the agony, Kang Woo remained expressionless, as if his humanity—or what was left of it—was nothing more than a distant memory. A single tear, mixed with blood, rolled down his cheek, leaving everyone to wonder if it was sorrow or a remnant of Peter January's lingering humanity.
Kang Woo leaned back slightly, his voice carrying the weight of ancient disdain. "In the unknown years after 2012, there was a so-called prophecy of a great king of terror descending upon this world."
He chuckled, the sound hollow and mocking, before his voice rose into a full-blown laugh. "AHAHAHA! What pathetic, fake, baloney nonsense!"
His eyes glinted with a sharp, dangerous edge as he continued, his tone dripping with mockery. "And yet, in desperation, the entire world placed its burden on two devils to carry out their salvation. The War Devil Fiend and the Chainsaw Devil—what a laughable solution."
He sneered, leaning forward again, his gaze slicing through the room like a blade. "Japan, in its cowardice, formed a cult of fear, spreading war across the world in a futile attempt to make these two devils strong enough to defeat the Death Devil. And their grand plan?" His grin widened, cruel and venomous. "To have the Chainsaw Devil consume the Death Devil… so all of you could transcend death itself."
His words reverberated through the room, sharp and cutting. The grotesque sky pulsed in rhythm with Kang Woo's disdain, as if the eldritch horrors above were an extension of his loathing.
Kang Woo rose from his throne, his towering form emanating finality and dominance. His crimson, three-pupil eyes locked onto the writhing forms of Kentaro and Tadashi as they continued to be devoured. "My question to you, Kentaro and Tadashi, is this: How does it feel? To want to die, to crave the silence of oblivion—yet find that death is now beyond your reach?"
Kentaro could only let out a muffled gurgle of despair: "Hurrgggg…"
Tadashi's trembling form echoed with a similar cry: "Hooouurrrghh…"
Their pitiful sounds were drowned out by the cacophony of monstrous chewing and guttural roars. The thousand mouths continued their gruesome feast, while the thousand eyes observed hungrily, their reflections showcasing every ounce of torment inflicted upon the two men.
Kang Woo leaned back into his throne, his darkened eyes scanning the room, daring anyone to challenge him. His gaze flicked momentarily toward Aki, Himeno, Yoshida, and Fami, each of whom remained silent under the crushing weight of his actions and words.
Yoshida, breaking the silence, leaned toward Fami and whispered, "I don't know what this monster is talking about, but I have a hunch it has something to do with you."
Fami said nothing, her mind racing. How does this monster know about Nostradamus's prophecy? No one leaked it. The only ones who might know are the Future Devil… that goofy tree. But even I don't know where it's gone. And Makima… Makima doesn't know either.
Aki's face grew pale, his thoughts a storm of worry. I need to reason with Kang Woo. The horror in the sky… it's too much. The people of this country won't survive this intensity.
Just as Aki moved to step forward, a firm hand grabbed his shoulder. He turned to see Kishibe, his expression calm yet stern. Without speaking, Kishibe motioned for Aki to stand down.
"I'll handle this," Kishibe said, his voice steady. "At least I can talk to Makima. If anyone has a chance to reason with Kang Woo, it's her."
Aki hesitated but nodded, stepping back reluctantly as Kishibe began to move forward, his eyes fixed on Makima, the only one who might reach the monstrous Kang Woo.
In Makima's mind, thoughts swirled. Is this what my King told me about the Almighty? She glanced at Kang Woo, noting his eyes, now with three irises, bleeding profusely as if the forced activation of such power exacted a terrible toll. That's definitely the Almighty in its forced state...
Makima expression remained composed, though her thoughts grew darker. And my eldest sister, the Death Devil herself… Is she planning to descend? If she does, it would be the most apocalyptic scenario imaginable.
Makima's thoughts deepened as she glanced toward Kang Woo, his overwhelming presence casting a shadow over the room. The old me would be frantically preparing contingencies, desperately searching for the Chainsaw Devil as a countermeasure. But now… She focused entirely on Kang Woo. The moment the Death Devil steps foot on this planet, she will either become my King's slave, be blown to pieces, or be erased from existence entirely.
Her expression softened slightly, though her thoughts turned bittersweet. Even if she permanently dies... she's still my sister. That would be sad.
Kishibe approached her cautiously, breaking her reverie.
Makima greeted him with a faint smirk, her usual calm in full effect. "If you're here to ask about the Death Devil—the strongest of all Primal Devils—I have no idea if or when she'll descend. Nor do I have the slightest clue what Kang Woo is talking about. This is all new to me." Her tone carried a hint of sarcasm, a light jest amid the heavy atmosphere.
Kishibe frowned. "That's a bad joke, Makima. Honestly, the Death Devil isn't even the most terrifying thing right now. The current Kang Woo is far worse."
Makima chuckled softly, her amusement genuine for a moment. She held out a notebook and pen toward him. "Do you want these back or not?"
Kishibe blinked at the sudden gesture but took the items back with a raised brow. "I thought you'd have tossed it somewhere after that suicidal charge against Lucifero days ago."
Makima's smile widened slightly as she tilted her head. "Oh, come on. I wouldn't waste something that valuable. Though…" Her tone turned teasing. "There was a message in there that said, 'Makima is listening and going to kill Makima. I have a plan and will tell you everything.'" She laughed lightly. "It was meant for Quanxi, in case you met her. She'd get the joke."
She smiled faintly, her tone still light. "But you don't need to worry about that kind of thing anymore, Kishibe."
Kishibe gave her a skeptical look, raising an eyebrow. "And why's that?"
Makima's eyes drifted momentarily to Kang Woo, seated on his dark throne like an ominous god. "There won't be any more rats or birds spying on you, nor hidden eyes in every corner of Japan. My wish has already been granted."
She smiled faintly as she looked back at Kishibe. "You can thank him for that," she added, her voice soft but firm, her gaze once again returning to Kang Woo—the one who had given her the love and fulfillment she had craved for so long.
Kishibe chuckled dryly, shaking his head. "It's very funny that we're technically still enemies, and yet here we are having this lighthearted conversation. Kang Woo's bad influence is reaching everyone." He sighed, crossing his arms. "You probably know , I once organized an anti-Makima squad to trap you in Hell. It took six men, sacrificing themselves for the mission. And what happens? Kang Woo shows up instead, asks me how to summon the Hell Devil, and uses it for his own purposes. He didn't just summon it—he easily commanded it like a damn bodyguard and even ordered it to protect me."
Makima smirked, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "I can see the Hell Devil is doing an excellent job guarding you, Kishibe. Very thorough work."
Kishibe's expression turned serious, his tone losing its edge. "Makima, I'm calling in my favor. Since you borrowed my notebook, I want repayment. Can you ask Kang Woo to clear the sky? It's darkened, filled with those monstrous nightmare creatures, and frankly, I have no contingency for dealing with someone of his caliber."
Makima raised an eyebrow, her smile tinged with amusement. "You do realize that we're standing barely a meter away from him, and he's definitely listening to this entire conversation, right?"
Kang Woo, still seated on his throne, smiled silently, the expression unreadable but undeniably knowing. His attention remained partially fixed on Makima and Kishibe as their conversation unfolded, yet his focus never wavered from the ongoing torture of the Prime Minister and the former Minister of Finance. Their agonized, muffled screams echoed through the room as the eldritch entities continued their gruesome feast, indifferent to the casual discussion nearby.
Makima sighed, her tone carrying that signature mix of playfulness and an edge of sarcasm. "Alright, Kishibe, I'll repay your favor. But don't expect miracles. If Kang Woo decides to drop those nightmares from the sky—judging by the sheer size of those creatures—it's definitely going to kill everyone on this planet except me, Kobeni, and himself. Honestly, that kind of repayment would be so sarcastic it might even amuse me."
Kishibe took a long drag from his cigarette, the smoke curling lazily around him. "At least you're making an effort. That's good enough for me," he muttered dryly.
Makima began her approach toward Kang Woo, her movements deliberate and composed. As she neared .
Kang Woo tilted his head slightly, his glowing, multi-pupiled eyes fixed on her with faint amusement. "Is everyone becoming like me now?" he asked, his voice carrying that sharp humor that cut through the heavy atmosphere. "My crazy influence seems to be contagious. Everyone who meets me starts blurting out their plans like I actually care."
Makima smirked. "I wouldn't know about your so-called influence, but realistically speaking, we still need a country—or at least some leverage against the world." Her tone shifted slightly, becoming more pointed. "And besides, you've said it yourself, haven't you? My mana output is rough. It needs a substantial amount of humans, their thoughts generating negative energy, to smooth it out. Japan's just my backyard; it's easier for me to recharge my magic here."
Kang Woo leaned back into his throne, resting his chin on his hand. "It's difficult, though, isn't it? Human nature doesn't change. They pick fights without understanding the consequences, and even the negative energy they generate is… subpar." He let out a dry chuckle. "Low quality. It needs more of a jolt to be of any use, in my experience."
Makima crossed her arms, her expression remaining calm but her gaze sharp. "You're not wrong. But perhaps the 'jolt' you mentioned could come from your theatrics? After all, they seem… effective."
Kang Woo tilted his head, his smirk growing slightly. "Technically, you don't need to worry about recharging your mana," he said casually. "It only takes a moment—probably three seconds at most. My Commandment is what grants you mana, and every time you run out, it automatically recharges. It's using my infinite mana as a source."
Makima raised an eyebrow, her lips curling into a faint smile. "Convenient."
"But," Kang Woo continued, his tone sharpening, "there's the bigger problem. There are some good people, like Kishibe, Aki, and Himeno. But let's be honest—the majority of humans? Absolute fucking assholes. That's a fact."
His tone grew quieter, and his voice entered Makima's mind telepathically. You do realize that this entire group of higher-ups—the ones you're entertaining and indulging—are the very reason you've never achieved peace. And if we're being realistic, the future won't be any different. It's all the same cycle.
Makima's expression didn't change, but her voice echoed back in his mind telepathically. We need figureheads. Puppets to be controlled. What Stormfront suggested—the Tournament of Heroes—could give us that. Let the people see us as their saviors.
Her gaze flickered briefly to the sky, still darkened and filled with the writhing forms of eldritch horrors. This tournament will give us control of Japan behind the scenes. While the higher-ups take credit for freeing Japan from their debts to America, we'll wield real power. Hailed as necessary evils, we'll own them from the shadows.
Kang Woo chuckled softly, his amusement resonating through the room like a sinister undercurrent. His multi-pupiled eyes scanned the trembling politicians and fear-stricken survivors, his gaze carrying an unspoken declaration of absolute dominance. With a casual wave of his hand, the nightmarish creatures in the sky began to dissipate, vanishing like shadows chased away by light of Divine Axe Rhitta .
The oppressive atmosphere lightened marginally, though the terror in the room lingered. Kang Woo released both Prime Minister Kentaro and former Minister Tadashi from their torturous binds. The two crumpled to the ground, gasping for air, their bodies trembling uncontrollably.
Kang Woo leaned back into his throne, his tone laced with biting sarcasm. "How about it? You've just earned yourselves a role in my game."
Kentaro remained silent, unable to speak, his body paralyzed by trauma and fear.
Tadashi, however, managed to force himself to his knees. Bowing deeply, he stammered, "Y-yes… I will be grateful for any bidding you command."
Makima observed the scene with a neutral expression, though her thoughts betrayed her outward calm. I'm certain of it now. When Kang Woo's eyes changed from two irises to three, and blood poured from them… that single tear wasn't incidental. It wasn't a weakness. It's tied to me—or perhaps my future self, Nayuta.
Her gaze softened slightly as it rested on Kang Woo. I need to comfort him. Reassure him, at the very least. Tell him that I'm fine, that I'm the happiest devil alive under his rule.
Makima's thoughts deepened. Kang Woo claims he doesn't have a tragic past, but his drastic shift in demeanor—his sheer rage at Kentaro's invocation of 'greater good'—suggests otherwise. He's hiding something. Something that's shaped him profoundly.
Her resolve solidified. As his first wife and devout follower, it's my duty to understand him, to know the depths of what drives him. Only then can I truly stand beside him.
Kang Woo, as if sensing Makima's thoughts, offered no comment. His gaze remained cold and calculating, briefly shifting to the room's terrified occupants. Then, with a casual snap of his fingers, the devastation caused by the Almighty, along with the collateral damage behind the shattered wall where the bowing, mangled half-body of the Falling Devil remained, vanished. The massive five-kilometer crater and widespread destruction in the city of Tokyo simply ceased to exist, as though it had never happened. The city stood restored, untouched, its former chaos erased in an instant.
The sight left everyone stunned. The realization rippled through the room: this being could do whatever he wanted, unbound by conventional limitations.
Aki, standing near Himeno, nudged her lightly with his elbow. "Himeno-senpai, do you have a smoke?" he asked, his tone subdued but steady.
Himeno reached into her pocket, pulling out her pack of cigarettes. Without a word, she handed one to Aki and lit her own. The two lit their cigarettes in unison, taking deep drags before exhaling clouds of smoke that drifted lazily into the tense air.
Breaking the silence, Himeno spoke first. "Aki, you're really thinking of asking Kang Woo to teach you his power ? Not saying he wouldn't—he honestly seems like he wouldn't mind at all. But that 'don't mind' attitude of his?" She exhaled another puff of smoke. "It's... unsettling. Even now, with us talking like this, you know he wouldn't give a damn either way."
Aki glanced at her, his cigarette balanced between his fingers. "From where I'm standing, we're stuck in a cycle. Us—the humans—and, by default, the Public Safety Devil Hunters. We're stagnant. We suffer heavy losses all the time, and so many of our comrades die. I don't want to lose anyone anymore, Himeno-senpai. Especially not you."
Himeno raised an eyebrow, a faint smirk playing on her lips. Her tone turned sarcastic, though there was a glimmer of admiration in her voice. "And, as always, wherever you go, I'll be right there to keep you alive, no matter what."
Suddenly, the television in the meeting room flickered on, cutting through the quiet. A news broadcast flashed across the screen:
"Breaking News: The destruction that created a five-kilometer-wide crater out of nowhere And the aftermath of what appears to have been a battle between the captain of The Seven and an individual named Kang Woo—has mysteriously vanished. The city itself appears unharmed. We are still trying to—"
Before the reporter could finish, a loud BANG echoed through the room. The television shattered into pieces, silenced by Makima's signature pistol-like hand gesture. She lowered her fingers, her tone calm and sharp as she remarked, "It's been getting far too noisy lately."
Kang Woo stepped forward, his towering form casting a shadow over the trembling Prime Minister Kentaro. He leaned down slightly, his voice low and commanding. "When I win the Tournament of Heroes, I expect ownership of the entire country of Japan. You and the other ministers will serve as nothing more than figureheads."
Kentaro's head snapped up, and he bowed deeply, his voice trembling as he shouted, "YES, EMPEROR!"
The other ministers followed suit, bowing and echoing in unison, "YES, EMPEROR!"
Kang Woo stood tall, his multi-pupiled eyes glowing faintly, the room falling utterly silent under the weight of his absolute authority.
Breaking the silence, Kishibe let out a dry chuckle, taking a long drag from his cigarette. " Should I call you 'Emperor' too, or just Kang Woo?"
Kang Woo glanced at him, his expression unreadable, though his tone carried a hint of amusement. "Just call me Kang Woo. Besides, I'll own everything behind the scenes anyway."
Kang Woo shifted his gaze, his voice turning sharper. "I take it you're still staying with Public Safety Devil Hunter? I admire loyalty, but even then, it's filled with incompetent wretches and weak personnel. That's something I plan to fix permanently with Compound V—specifically designed for adults as part of the deal. But I want to know your reason. Why stay with them despite their flaws? I wonder."
Kishibe tapped the ash off his cigarette, his tone casual yet firm. "I'm still thinking about that. Probably because I'm already old and it's hard to move anywhere else except where I'm stationed. Second, there's going to be a new generation of Public Safety Devil Hunters. Someone's gotta train them, at least set them on a better path when they're imbued with Compound V—so they don't turn into a bunch of egotistical maniacs like The Seven from Vought."
Kishibe took another drag, exhaling slowly before continuing. "And for the third reason... You're too dangerous, Kang Woo. Your power grows too fast, and after what you've shown today, it's clear you can literally do whatever you want. Someone's gotta be the counter to that." He smirked slightly. "I'm even thinking of forming an anti-Kang Woo squad in the future. Hope you don't mind."
Kang Woo's smirk widened, his voice calm yet laced with a challenge. "You're welcome to try if you want to defeat me. But make sure it's interesting." He paused, his tone sharpening slightly. "However, I need to clarify something: I was already powerful long before I came to this invalid world. It's just that I had... complications and was caught off guard."
The weight of his words hung in the air, a reminder that his current dominance wasn't born of chance but the result of a power that had been suppressed, now unleashed. Kishibe's smirk faltered for a moment as he absorbed the statement, his cigarette burning slowly between his fingers.
Kang Woo then turned toward the exposed wall behind him, his steps slow and deliberate. Extending his hand, he summoned Chaos Excalibur. Even in its sealed state, the blade exuded a sense of immense power and regality. It appeared as a broadsword with an exceptionally wide blade, its grip resembling a swirling dark cosmic void, emanating chaotic energy. The cross-guard had a hollow, sharp diamond shape that matched the pommel, while the rain guard was adorned with jewels radiating a faint, regal glow.( img here )
Without hesitation, Kang Woo shattered the blade with his bare hands, shards scattering around him like fragments of stars. Holding the hilt aloft, he pointed it toward the sky. Instantly, the darkened heavens above responded. The Divine Axe Rhitta's radiant light descended from above, while the darkness of the sky folded into the shattered blade. The energy fused into Chaos Excalibur, transforming it before their eyes.
In its second form, the handle of Excalibur took on a black-and-white square design, crowned with a round knob and adorned with two small wings—one a white bird, the other a black bat. The blade elongated slightly, etched with intricate markings of alternating black and white, representing the unity of Yin and Yang. It radiated an air of perfect balance yet unleashed chaos, embodying its paradoxical nature.( img here )
Makima, watching the transformation with awe, broke the silence with her calm, reverent tone. "Is that your former sword, my King? The one thought lost and now reclaimed in all its glory?" Her words carried admiration, her crimson-ringed eyes shining faintly in fascination.
Kang Woo gave her a brief glance, his expression unreadable. "No. I just created it recently. It allows me to focus my damage on a single target more effectively." He held the blade up, its gleaming surface reflecting the dim light. "But it's still not enough. It's not on par with me—yet."
Makima's smile widened slightly, her voice laced with admiration. "Then perhaps it is only a matter of time before it becomes worthy of you, my King."
Kang Woo's smirk returned, sharper now. "No. I finish it right here and now."
Suddenly, the eldritch abominations that had vanished earlier reappeared, this time far larger, their grotesque forms covering the entire planet's sky. The world seemed to tremble under their presence, but unlike before, they moved with clear purpose, obeying Kang Woo's will.
These nightmares—the manifestations of Kang Woo's King of Chaos power, capable of warping reality itself on par with the legendary King of Chaos Arthur—now responded to his calm, focused intent rather than his emotions. His dark sclera glowed ominously as his multi-pupiled eyes gazed upward. The abominations swirled and compressed, flowing into Chaos Excalibur like a torrent of cosmic energy.
The sword underwent yet another transformation, its form shifting into a single-edged katana. A half-circle adorned the top of the handle, flanked by four golden wings . This final form of Chaos Excalibur exuded unparalleled power and purpose. It was no longer just a weapon; it was the embodiment of Kang Woo's ideals and might. As the last of the sky's nightmares were absorbed into the blade, the sky cleared, revealing the noon sun and a serene blue horizon. (img here )
Kang Woo lowered the blade, letting its energy settle. Turning to Kishibe, he teased, "There. I've cleared the sky back to normal for you. Satisfied?"
Kishibe took a drag from his cigarette, exhaling smoke slowly as he replied, "That's a horrifying demonstration. However, I thank you, Kang Woo. You've returned the sky to normal and, for once, didn't make things worse than they already are."
Makima stepped forward, her gaze fixed on the sword with unwavering admiration. "This sword…" she said softly, her voice carrying her signature mix of curiosity and reverence. "It's a reflection of you, my King. A symbol of your power, your will, and your essence. What will you name it?"
Her words carried an almost theatrical weight, her tone perfectly timed to emphasize the importance of the moment.
Kang Woo's smirk widened, his gaze shifting between Makima and the blade. "Chaos Excalibur," he said, his voice resonating with finality. "The name 'Chaos' represents me—I despise foolish order and stagnation. I'll do whatever it takes to change it, even if it means burning the entire world to ash. And 'Excalibur'... in a world not this one, there was a sword of promise called Excalibur. A sword that symbolized victory. But this sword?" He raised it slightly, the wings glowing faintly. "This one promises conquest—not just of a world, but of all existence."
Makima smiled, her admiration unwavering. "A fitting name, my King. A sword as boundless as the one who wields it."