n another part of the library, Makima and O-Bengh stood before a room housing the Macchina de Cadavus, a cube emitting a faint, ominous glow.
Makima's smirk turned sarcastic as she crossed her arms. "O-Bengh, are these really going to help me learn the magic of this universe? I think I've seen enough dangerous cubes for a lifetime. First, there's the Tesseract containing the Space Stone—probably scattered in some hidden wonderland by now—and now this, which I don't even recognize."
O-Bengh sighed, shaking his head with a wry smile. "Your husband truly has everything, doesn't he? And yet, he treats powerful artifacts like junk to be tossed aside. But I assure you, this is no mere trinket, and I'm not your teacher."
Makima raised an eyebrow, her yellow-ringed eyes narrowing slightly. "Hmm?"
O-Bengh stepped closer to the cube, his hands hovering over it as ancient glyphs began to glow on its surface. "I'm going to transport you through time to meet someone who can teach you."
Makima's smirk dropped, replaced by a look of incredulous surprise. "Huh? What do you mean, transport me through time?"
O-Bengh glanced over his shoulder, his expression calm but firm. "I mean exactly that. You'll need guidance from someone beyond the knowledge of this era. The Macchina de Cadavus is the key to reaching them."
Makima's gaze flickered between O-Bengh and the glowing cube, her mind racing. "And this mysterious teacher… they're supposed to help me understand magic in this universe?"
O-Bengh nodded. "More than that. They'll help you master it."
He then sighed, a flicker of apprehension in his serene demeanor. "Your Demon King husband, Kang Woo, won't blow this world to pieces if I suddenly transport you through time, will he?"
Makima's smirk faltered as she raised a hand, focusing her control powers. Nearby rats and birds froze for a moment before their sight became her own. Through their eyes, she saw Kang Woo and Kobeni sharing an intimate moment in another part of the library. Her expression darkened as she pinched the bridge of her nose and muttered, "I leave you alone for a few minutes, and another woman is already trying to steal my intimate moment with you, huh?"
( there will be a lemon scene , kang woo and kobeni but i need more time )
O-Bengh, sensing the shift in her demeanor, chuckled awkwardly. "You know, you can refuse—"
" no problem," Makima interrupted sharply, brushing aside her irritation with a flick of her hand. Her smirk returned as she added dryly, "Besides, O-Bengh, my husband has his own… therapy sessions with his co-wives. Kobeni happens to be the second wife, so I'll let it slide. For now. But let's focus on this little time-travel plan of yours. How will I return to this place since I'm sure I'll end up in a different era?"
O-Bengh pointed to the Infinity Sling Ring on her finger, its intricate design gleaming faintly with power. "That," he said with a hint of admiration. "Right now, you don't fully know how to use it, but the artifact your husband gave you is far superior to any sling ring this universe—or any other—has ever seen. It contains the Reality Stone and Time Stone, which means it can literally take you anywhere, across space and time."
Makima's yellow-ringed eyes narrowed as she inspected the artifact. "Ooh, this isn't just a tool. It's a key."
O-Bengh nodded, his expression serious. "Your husband gave you more than just a trinket—it's a gateway. With enough practice, you won't need anything else to navigate the multiverse."
Makima smirked, her fingers brushing over the Infinity Sling Ring. "Huhuhu, that sounds like something Kang Woo would do—handing over a universe-bending relic like it's a souvenir. Fine, O-Bengh. Let's see where this journey takes me."
O-Bengh suddenly reached out and gently grabbed Makima's right hand.
makimatilted her head, her smirk growing playful. "If you're planning to propose love to me, I'm afraid my heart belongs to Kang Woo."
O-Bengh's lips twitched into a faint smile before his expression grew somber. "Please, Makima. Master the magic of this universe. Become someone who can either guide Strange back from his dark path or, if necessary, be his rival—the kind of rival that can make him realize his mistakes. The other Strange, the fragment of his split existence that traveled to the Lost Library of Cagliostro... I fear it won't be enough. He won't see reason without someone like you."
Makima's smirk faded entirely as O-Bengh's words settled in. Her thoughts churned, acknowledging the immense weight placed on her shoulders. First the Watcher, and now O-Bengh. He didn't even use one of his nicknames this time. This must be incredibly serious.
After a moment, she straightened, her demeanor shifting into steely determination. Placing her hand firmly on O-Bengh's shoulder, she said, "That's why I'm here, isn't it? To save this universe."
O-Bengh's gaze softened slightly, though the gravity of the moment didn't waver. "Indeed. I'll transport you near the person you'll need to speak with. But Makima," he added, his tone firm, "this time, humble yourself. Use your eyes, your heart, and your mind—not just your smell."
Makima raised an eyebrow, her tone calm yet pointed. "That's what I've been doing since I met Kang Woo."
O-Bengh chuckled lightly, shaking his head. "You still see things as blurry, Makima. Only specific people do you truly see with clarity. I suspect you've carried a touch of arrogance with you for a long time—but that can be tempered. Your experiences here are no coincidence. I believe in you."
With that, O-Bengh stepped back and began casting intricate spells, runes of glowing light forming in the air around the cube. The Macchina de Cadavus hummed with energy as the runes grew brighter, the room filling with an otherworldly glow.
Suddenly, O-Bengh's expression twisted into a sheepish grimace. "Uhh, I made an oopsie."
Makima's yellow-ringed eyes narrowed, her smirk reappearing faintly with a mix of irritation and curiosity. "Huh? What? What did you do?"
O-Bengh sighed dramatically. "I should've borrowed the Eye of Agamotto from Strange. Without it, you'll still meet the person you need to, but only for a limited time. After that, you'll be brought back here automatically."
Makima's body was surrounded by swirling orange sparks, the process of time traveling already beginning. She rolled her eyes, crossing her arms as she smirked wryly. " Another note for this universe's list of quirks: one, the librarian who almost let the universe get destroyed by letting a man study his books; two, the so-called good guys here are a bunch of idiots."
O-Bengh laughed softly, the sound fading as Makima's form dissolved into the glow, leaving the library and beginning her temporal journey.
The chaotic sounds of battle filled the streets of New York City as Chitauri forces swarmed through the skies and streets, wreaking havoc under Loki's command. At Madison Bank, Captain America fought valiantly to rescue a dozen terrified civilians trapped inside. Sweat dripped down his face as he swung his shield, smashing through wave after wave of Chitauri, but the numbers were overwhelming.
"I need to draw their attention away from the civilians," Captain America muttered to himself, already planning his next move despite the grim odds.
Suddenly, a flash of orange sparks burst into existence behind him, and a figure materialized within the swirling glow. It was Makima, her yellow-ringed eyes cold and calculating. She barely had time to assess the scene before a group of Chitauri turned their weapons toward her, preparing to fire.
Makima didn't hesitate. With a flick of her hand, she summoned a sword of darkness forged from darkness manipulation, its ethereal blade gleaming ominously. In a swift, fluid motion, she dashed forward, splitting the Chitauri soldiers cleanly in half. Their bodies crumpled to the ground, sparks flying from their broken weapons.
The last remaining Chitauri, wide-eyed and panicked, prepared a bomb, its volatile core glowing ominously. Makima's eyes narrowed, and chains of ethereal energy shot forth from her hands, wrapping tightly around the alien. The creature struggled in vain as Makima's chains forced it to swallow its own bomb.
A muffled explosion erupted from within the Chitauri's body, silencing it forever.
Captain America, momentarily stunned by the sheer efficiency and brutality of Makima's actions, approached cautiously, his shield ready but his tone grateful. "I don't know who you are, but thanks for your help."
Makima didn't respond immediately, her gaze sweeping the battlefield with a mix of disdain and focus. In her thoughts, however, a more personal grievance surfaced. Third note: the worst time traveling in history. If I get nothing from this, O-Bengh, I swear I'm burning your books right in front of you.
Captain America touched his earpiece as Clint Barton's voice came through. "Cap, multiple Jonah fishincoming. They'll be on you in minutes."
Captain America's gaze darted toward the trapped civilians. "Everyone, get out of here! A giant space fish is coming to crash this place down. Move now!"
Before he could say more, Makima's dark, ethereal wing unfurled from her back. With a single powerful flap, she launched herself to the roof of the bank, her form cutting through the air like a shadow.
Captain America, still at ground level, stared in astonishment. "Is she... like Thor? Some other humanoid species not from Earth?"
On the rooftop, Makima's eyes swept over the city. The destruction, the swarming Chitauri, and the massive portal in the sky. Her lips curled into a faint smirk, though her thoughts were laced with annoyance. If I'm not mistaken, this is New York. At least there's no Vought here. But aliens from outer space and a giant portal in the sky? Really troublesome.
As the Leviathans loomed closer, Iron Man flew into position, using his wrist lasers to try and pierce their thick armor. Jarvis's voice came through his helmet with a warning. "Sir, we will lose power before we breach its skin."
Before Iron Man could formulate a new plan, an ethereal chain shot through the air, piercing one Leviathan's head and wrapping around another. The massive creatures turned on each other, colliding in midair with a thunderous crash. Iron Man scanned the area for the source and saw a red-haired woman standing atop a nearby building.
Landing next to her, Iron Man's helmet retracted as he addressed her, his tone a mix of curiosity and charm. "Thanks for the assist. Are you, uh, like Thor? An alien from outer space? Maybe a cousin to the Point Break ?"
Makima didn't respond immediately, her yellow-ringed eyes scanning the city below. She seemed more focused on something else entirely. Her thoughts churned as she picked up the faint but unmistakable trace of magic emanating from a distant point in the city. Magic like O-Bengh's and Strange's... That's my destination.
Iron Man tilted his head, watching her carefully. "There's shawarma a few blocks from here if you want to—"
Before he could finish, Makima's dark wing unfurled, and with a single flap, she took off toward her goal, leaving Iron Man standing there, mid-sentence.
Iron Man watched her go, shaking his head with a wry smile. Shame. We could really use a new member of the Avengers. He tapped his helmet as Clint Barton's voice came through his comms.
"Tony, there are way too many aliens heading my way! I'm running out of arrows here. Think you could get your ass over here and actually be useful? Or, you know, lend me one of your suits?"
Iron Man smirked as his helmet snapped back into place. "Not in a century, Barton." He launched himself into the air, heading toward Barton's location, while Makima's single-minded focus led her deeper into the chaos of New York City.
In the chaos of the New York Sanctum, the Ancient One gracefully fended off the invading Chitauri, her golden shield of magic shimmering with precision as she dispatched one after another. Amidst the carnage, a massive figure landed heavily—2019's Bruce Banner in his Hulk form, freshly briefed by his future Captain America about retrieving the Infinity Stones to bring everyone back.
The Ancient One turned, her calm demeanor untouched even amidst the pandemonium. With a slight smirk, she remarked, "I'm sorry, you might not want to go in there. We just had the floor waxed."
Banner blinked, his massive form looking slightly awkward as he processed her words. Before he could respond, another figure descended with a single dark wing unfurled—Makima. She landed with an effortless grace that stood in stark contrast to the surrounding chaos, her yellow-ringed eyes sweeping the scene with detached curiosity.
Banner looked at her, confusion etched on his face. "Uhhh... I don't know you."
Makima's smirk deepened, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "Neither do I."
The Ancient One chuckled lightly, her tone playful yet edged with wisdom. "It seems we have two visitors from outside this reality. Now, who wants to ask me first?"
Makima turned her piercing gaze toward Banner, stepping slightly to the side with a small, sarcastic flourish of her hand. "You first, green guy."
Banner, still caught between confusion and urgency, pointed toward the Ancient One. "I'm looking for Doctor Strange."
The Ancient One arched an eyebrow, her tone calm but direct. "You're five years too early. Stephen Strange is performing surgery a few blocks from here. What do you want from him?"
Banner shifted uncomfortably before pointing at the Eye of Agamotto hanging like a large pendant around her neck. "Actually... that."
The Ancient One's expression shifted, her calm demeanor now tinged with firm resolve. "Ahhh, I see. I'm afraid not."
Banner's massive shoulders tensed, and he took a step forward. "Sorry, I'm not asking."
The Ancient One's smirk faded, her gaze sharpening. "You don't want to do this."
"I don't have time to debate—" Banner began, his voice filled with urgency. But before he could finish, the Ancient One raised her palm, which glowed with intricate patterns of golden astral magic. With a precise motion, she struck him, and Banner's towering Hulk body stumbled as his astral form was violently ejected.
The translucent, glowing form of Bruce Banner hovered in the air, his expression frozen in shock and disbelief.
The Ancient One stepped closer, her voice calm but unyielding. "Now, let's start over, shall we, Bruce?"
Makima, who had been silently observing the exchange, let out a soft chuckle, her smirk widening. "Huhuhu... fascinating. It seems even the green giant can be reduced to this. Intriguing." Her yellow-ringed eyes glimmered with a mix of amusement and curiosity as she turned her attention back to the Ancient One.
The Ancient One turned her gaze toward Makima, her expression curious yet composed. "Before we proceed, may I know your name, Ms.—?"
Makima smirked faintly. "You can call me Makima."
The Ancient One nodded in acknowledgment, her tone unwavering. "Makima, could you grant me a few moments? I need to address Bruce's problem first. We're discussing a matter of serious consequence—reality itself hangs in the balance."
Makima tilted her head, her yellow-ringed eyes shimmering with mild amusement. "Of course. I'll observe."
The Ancient One turned her attention back to Banner, who hovered awkwardly in his astral form. After a brief moment of conversation , she spoke, her voice heavy with finality. "I cannot help you, Bruce. If I give up the Time Stone, I doom my own reality."
Banner's translucent form tensed as he responded, his tone frustrated yet respectful. "With all due respect, I'm not sure science supports that ."
The Ancient One sighed, her composure unshaken as she extended her hand. A golden projection appeared in the air, illustrating the intricate flow of time like a stream of light and energy. She gestured toward the projection as she explained, "The Infinity Stones create the flow of time—the projection you see here. Remove one stone, and that flow splits."
She pointed at a branching line in the projection, her voice growing more somber. "While this benefits your reality, it devastates mine. In this new branch of reality, without our greatest weapon against the forces of darkness, our world will be overrun."
Makima watched intently, her smirk fading into a thoughtful expression as she absorbed the Ancient One's words. In her thoughts, she mused, Even the defenders of this reality are bound by these stones. This is a delicate balance... yet another thing Kang Woo would likely discard like trash. She remained silent, allowing the Ancient One and Banner to continue their debate.
The Ancient One's expression remained firm, her tone unwavering. "Millions will suffer if the Time Stone is given to you. So tell me, Doctor Banner—can your science prevent all that?"
Banner hesitated for a moment, then replied earnestly, "No. But we can erase it. When we're done with the stones, we'll return each one to its own timeline, at the exact moment it was taken. Chronologically, in that reality, it will be as if the stones never left."
As Banner spoke, the golden projection shifted. The branching flow of time realigned, illustrating his explanation. The Ancient One studied it with a sharp gaze but continued to press him. "You've explained how the timeline can be restored. But you've missed the most critical point: to return the stones, you need to survive."
Banner's astral form leaned forward slightly, his voice filled with determination. "We will. I promise."
The Ancient One narrowed her eyes, the weight of her wisdom evident in her next words. "I cannot risk this reality based on a promise, Doctor Banner."
Makima, who had been observing silently, leaned slightly against the wall, her smirk returning faintly. In her thoughts, she noted, For the first time in this universe, someone—a bald-headed woman no less—whose brain and knowledge aren't bound by idealistic optimism or self-righteousness. A fact-based pragmatist. Good. Finally, no new bad notes for this universe.
Her sharp yellow-ringed eyes lingered on the exchange as she mused silently, Still, how far will this Bruce Banner go for his goal? More importantly, how much will this Ancient One compromise her principles?
The Ancient One's expression remained firm as she pressed on, her voice calm yet unyielding. "It is the duty of the Sorcerer Supreme to protect the Time Stone."
Banner, his astral form still lingering, replied sharply, "If that's the case, then why did Strange give the Time Stone away?"
The Ancient One froze, her calm demeanor replaced by a sharp intensity. "What did you say?"
Banner sighed, repeating himself. "Strange. He willingly gave the Time Stone to Thanos. I don't know why—maybe he made some kind of mistake."
The Ancient One's gaze narrowed, her mind working quickly. "Willingly… to Thanos?"
"Yes," Banner confirmed. "Willingly. but…"
The Ancient One fell silent for a moment, her face betraying a flicker of doubt. Finally, she spoke, her voice quieter but no less resolute. "Or perhaps I'm the one who made a mistake."
With a wave of her hand, she returned Banner's astral form to his body. The Hulk blinked, looking slightly disoriented but quickly regaining his composure. The Ancient One made a series of precise hand movements, unlocking the Eye of Agamotto and carefully extracting the glowing green Time Stone. She held it out to Banner, her expression solemn.
"Strange was meant to be the best of us," she said, her voice heavy with both pride and melancholy. "The pinnacle of what a Sorcerer Supreme could one day become."
Banner carefully took the stone, nodding. "Then he must have had a reason. A good one."
The Ancient One reached out, grabbing Banner's massive hand and squeezing it lightly. "I'm counting on you, Bruce. We all are."
Makima, who had remained silent throughout the heated exchange, finally facepalmed, letting out a soft groan of exasperation. "I take it back," she muttered to herself. "This universe is fucked. And I've somehow been handed the most insane mission to save it."
The Ancient One, seemingly unfazed by Makima's blunt remark, glanced at her with a faint smile, almost amused. "You're still here, aren't you? That says something."
Makima lowered her hand and smirked again, though this time, the edge in her expression was sharper. "Huhuhu, I suppose it does. Let's see how much worse this mess can get."
Banner, still clutching the Time Stone, stared at the glowing artifact in his massive hand, his expression a mix of determination and concern. "Uhh… this universe will be devastated if we mess this up, right?"
The Ancient One sighed softly, her calm demeanor unwavering. "Tell the next person who delivers this Time Stone to leave it here, Dr. Banner. This stone is tied to our universe, and I have a partial role in ensuring its protection as the current problem is more pressing ."
She then turned her attention to Makima, gesturing for her to follow. "Makima, we need to talk inside. I know your problem."
back on the rooftop, Bruce Banner glanced at the glowing Time Stone in his massive green hand, its radiance reflecting off his puzzled face.
Activating his comm, he said, "Scott , I've got the stone. Let's get out of here."
Scott Lang's voice crackled through the comm link, his tone a mix of exasperation and unease. "Uhh, yeah, but we've got a problem over here."
Banner groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose in frustration. "Of course. I fix one mess, and another starts popping out. What's the problem now?"
As Makima descended the staircase, her single dark wing dispersed into thin air, vanishing with an effortless flick of her will. She glanced toward the Ancient One with a dry smirk. "Strange was meant to be the best, huh? Back when he visited the Lost Library of Cagliostro? Or likenow he's trying to break an Absolute Point in time."
The Ancient One, standing patiently at the base of the staircase, nodded knowingly. "Yes, that too, I am aware of. Strange's actions have ripple effects far beyond what even he can comprehend. But his path is still being written. Your role, Makima, may yet influence it. We have much to discuss."
Makima's smirk lingered, though her piercing gaze betrayed a flicker of curiosity mixed with resignation as she stepped off the last stair.
"A cup of tea, perhaps?" the Ancient One offered with a serene smile.
Makima raised an eyebrow, her tone playfully sarcastic. "Probably some beers or—"
The Ancient One interrupted quickly, shaking her head. "No, no, no. Alcohol is bad for anyone's health—even for you. Although you are not human. A former low-rank demon, perhaps?"
Makima leaned back slightly, her smirk deepening. "Just got promoted to high-rank demon," she replied, her sarcasm cutting but laced with amusement.
The two seated themselves on opposite sides of a modest wooden table. Makima rested her elbow on the armrest, observing the Ancient One as she poured tea into two delicate cups.
"You really love tea, don't you?" Makima remarked, tilting her head slightly.
The Ancient One chuckled softly as she added a dollop of honey to her cup. "Tea and a little honey—or perhaps a lot of honey, depending on my stress level. It brings balance to moments of chaos."
Makima's smirk softened into something akin to amusement as she picked up her cup. "Balance, That's something this universe seems to desperately need."
Makima swirled her tea slightly, her sharp yellow-ringed eyes narrowing thoughtfully. "Are you the Ancient One?" she asked, her voice calm but pointed.
The Ancient One responded with a faint "Hmm?" her tone a mix of curiosity and subtle playfulness.
Makima's lips curled into a sly smirk. "Doctor Strange suspects my husband was ordered by someone he refers to as the Ancient One. He told me she's good with words—like me. Very persuasive when she needs to be."
The Ancient One smiled faintly. "But you failed to persuade him, didn't you? That's why you're here, Makima—to seek power. His half—or rather, Strange's half existence—stems from the past timeline, still within the same universe, where the Lost Books are located."
Makima tilted her head slightly, her smirk deepening as her thoughts churned. Meeting someone like me is both annoying and exciting.
Her tone shifted slightly as she asked, "Wait, half existence?"
The Ancient One placed her teacup gently on the table, her voice calm yet deliberate. "Doctor Strange from this universe—the one who eventually becomes Sorcerer Supreme—used the Time Stone to..."
Makima raised a hand slightly, her sharp tone cutting in to finish the sentence. "...travel back in time. Countless times. To save Christine from the Absolute Point in time."
The Ancient One nodded, her expression betraying neither surprise nor irritation. "You've grasped the broad strokes, yes. But it's more than that. He went further back—to a place where the Lost Books are located. I couldn't follow to stop him, so I drew power from the Dark Dimension to split Strange's existence, allowing two versions of him to coexist within one timeline."
Makima leaned back slightly, her smirk faltering as her mind processed the weight of this revelation. "Give me a moment to process this," she muttered, raising her teacup again as her thoughts swirled with curiosity and concern.
The Ancient One chuckled softly, an amused glint in her calm gaze. "Are you confused about this universe's capabilities, or are you more perplexed that I didn't give you a direct answer about whether I'm truly the Ancient One or not?"
Makima leaned back further in her chair, her smirk returning, albeit tinged with frustration. "Both. And, for the record, you're a lower level than my husband, Kang Woo. However, meeting someone like you—someone with a similar personality to mine—is incredibly annoying. Especially since I'm supposed to be the one who's good at words and speeches."
The Ancient One took a sip of her tea, entirely unfazed. "You must have a lot of stress and unpredictable events in your life. Perhaps shaving your head, becoming bald like me, could increase your patience."
Makima's smirk vanished instantly, replaced by a deadpan glare. "Drop fucking dead, you bald-headed woman."
The Ancient One set her teacup down, her serene smile unwavering despite Makima's sharp retort. "Ah, but patience, my dear, is a virtue. Even for demons—or perhaps, especially for demons."
Makima crossed her legs, her smirk reappearing as she leaned forward slightly. "Demons and devils are different in my world, unlike in this universe where they're treated as the same. In my world, devils are invalids. A pathetic creatures who feed on fear and negative energy tied to their concept. Demons, on the other hand, are the highest tier of existence—true apex in my world . My husband, Kang Woo, is a demon. A very high-tier demon at that."
The Ancient One studied Makima for a moment, her calm expression unchanged. "Interesting. I've never seen you through the Time Stone," she admitted, her tone reflective. "The stone gives me precognition of future events, yet you've remained unseen. Likely because you're an alien to this world."
She paused briefly before continuing, her voice carrying a faint edge of curiosity. "But I can guess. You have a strong personality, rooted in control and domination. Your original powers must stem from that. And that darkness you wield—it's bestowed upon you, isn't it? By your husband?"
Makima's smirk deepened, a flicker of genuine respect entering her sharp gaze. "You're a far more understanding person than I anticipated. I'm impressed."
The Ancient One nodded slightly, her tone growing contemplative. "And that Sling Ring in your hand—it's unlike any other. It was likely bestowed by your husband as well. I suspect it's the only one of its kind, capable of traversing the multiverse. But for now, you can't use it, can you? Not until you've grasped the magic of this universe."
Makima let out a small sigh, her tone carrying a hint of irritation. "Yeah, I don't understand a single thing about the magic this universe offers. You're right, though. I have a strong desire to control. In my world, I am the embodiment of the fear of control."
The Ancient One tilted her head slightly, her calm gaze unwavering. "Most people who come to me seek healing—physical or spiritual. But you, Makima, you seek enlightenment and power. That is... exceedingly rare."
She paused, her tone shifting to something more probing yet still serene. "Makima, although you mock the devils, I can tell you once were one of them—an invalid being. If I connect the dots, you were the Control Devil before being promoted and becoming a demon. It's the same reason your husband has given you so much power and so many gifts. Yet, subconsciously, you know your place. You know it's impossible to reach your husband's level and become the ideal wife you aspire to be for him."
Makima remained silent, her sharp yellow-ringed eyes flickering with subtle unease. In her thoughts, she mused, Need to remember what O-Bengh said—be humble. But I still can't see clearly. Is it my arrogantstill holding me back?
The Ancient One broke the silence with a fluid motion of her hand, creating a glowing circle of golden sparks using her Sling Ring. A portal materialized, its edges shimmering with mystic energy.
"Let's start one step at a time," the Ancient One said, her tone calm but firm. "I will guide you, Makima, just as I will, in the future, guide Strange."
Makima nodded as she rose from her chair, her movements precise and composed.
The Ancient One gestured toward her. "First, try to copy me. Use your Sling Ring."
Makima raised her hand, slipping on the Infinity Sling Ring she had received from Kang Woo, the Reality and Time Stones embedded on each side gleaming faintly. She made a circular gesture, her sharp yellow-ringed eyes narrowing in concentration. A faint sparkle flickered into existence but quickly fizzled out.
Makima stopped, her expression tightening slightly, irritation slipping into her voice though her composure remained intact. "I still don't understand how the magic of this universe works. I've already told you that."
The Ancient One stepped closer, placing a gentle but firm hand on Makima's shoulder. Her voice carried an air of reassurance, mixed with purpose. "Stop for a moment. I understand your frustration, but allow me to explain why I'm pressing you now. I won't tell you everything, but know this—your teaching is at its peak. It's similar to the zone stance of an athlete at the Olympics. Right now, your body, mind, and spirit are in harmony, in a 'heat' that accelerates your learning."
The Ancient One paused, meeting Makima's sharp gaze. "If I stop you now and have you learn through books or the slower, traditional methods, you'll lose this momentum. Your progress will stall."
Makima's expression softened slightly as she absorbed the words. After a brief moment, she nodded. "Fine. Let's continue."
The Ancient One gave a small nod of approval before speaking again. "You can't beat a river or an ocean into submission. It's impossible. But I understand—you're merely following how your husband acts. If he has the power to elevate you to a higher being, that suggests his power is virtually unlimited. However, that applies only to him. I'm sorry, Makima, but neither you, nor I, nor 90 percent of the living beings in this universe can do what he does. The only thing you can do is to surrender to the river's current and use its power as your own."
Makima's sharp yellow-ringed eyes narrowed as she absorbed the Ancient One's words. Her lips pressed into a tight line, irritation flickering across her composed demeanor. "You're telling me to surrender to the current? To let it carry me and use its power as my own?" Her voice was calm, but there was a distinct edge of frustration beneath the surface. "I am the embodiment of control itself, and you're asking me to let go of that? That doesn't make any sense at all."
The Ancient One, unfazed by Makima's reaction, smiled serenely. "You misunderstand. I'm not asking you to abandon control entirely—I'm asking you to shift your perspective. You cannot bend a river or ocean to your will . It's not about submission; it's about harmony. You use the current, flow with it, and direct it where it needs to go."
Makima's irritation deepened, though she maintained her composure. Her voice carried an edge, her frustration seeping through despite her effort to remain calm. "Harmony is not my strength. My power is rooted in domination, in bending others to my will. You expect me to simply... adapt? That's not how I operate."
The Ancient One's thoughts remained calm despite Makima's tone. Good. She's getting irritated. She might not realize it, but the more frustrated she becomes, the more she absorbs the knowledge and power I'm imparting. This method is unconventional, but it's working. Strange will face the same challenge in the future.
The Ancient One's voice softened but remained firm. "Not everything can be understood, and not everything needs to be how you operate. Your power has taken you very far. From what I see, you've likely commanded a high-ranking organization in your world, and you left it to follow your husband. But this approach will take you no further. Shift your perspective, Makima."
With a fluid motion, the Ancient One made a hand seal. The surroundings shifted dramatically, and they were both transported into the shimmering, fractured space of the Mirror Dimension.
Makima's irritation gave way to curiosity as she looked around, her sharp eyes scanning the surreal reflections and impossible architecture. "What is this place?" she asked, her tone still sharp but slightly calmer.
"This is the Mirror Dimension," the Ancient One explained. "A parallel dimension that allows the user to practice their magical abilities and fight their enemies without the public's knowledge. Or, perhaps, you could use it for surveillance—it's entirely undetectable."
Makima's thoughts settled slightly. I could use this for surveillance in the future, if necessary.
The Ancient One continued, her tone deliberate. "However, it can also be used to contain threats... or perhaps to train someone's ego."
Makima raised an eyebrow, her irritation flickering back. "Huh?"
Without another word, the Ancient One opened a portal and stepped through, leaving Makima alone in the Mirror Dimension. Her parting words echoed through the reflective space. "Surrender, Makima. Be better."
Makima didn't panic. Instead, she took a deep breath, closing her eyes briefly to center herself. When she opened them again, a faint smirk tugged at her lips as she muttered to herself, "That bald-headed woman is like a mixture of me and Kang Woo."
Makima stood in the eerie stillness of the Mirror Dimension, her sharp yellow-ringed eyes scanning the infinite reflections around her. Taking another deep breath, she raised her hand and made a circular gesture with her Infinity Sling Ring. Once again, faint sparks flickered into existence but failed to form a portal.
Lowering her hand, Makima's gaze softened, her sharp demeanor replaced with a rare vulnerability. Her thoughts began to churn. What am I afraid of? What makes me different from the me before I met Kang Woo?
Her voice, barely above a whisper, broke the silence. "I don't want to be left behind. I don't want to become the kind of first wife Kang Woo—the Demon King himself—only sees as a trophy."
She paused, her composure wavering for the first time in what felt like ages. A single tear slid down her cheek, glistening in the dim light of the reflective dimension. "He's regaining his power so quickly—he must be level 300 in another eight days if there's no interference and he absorbs whatever he needs. If my estimation is correct. And me? I'm stagnant."
Makima closed her eyes, letting the tears fall silently as she whispered to herself, "I can't lose him. There's no one who can replace him. Not in this world, not in any other."
For a moment, the immense weight of her vulnerability pressed against her ironclad resolve. But as the echoes of her own voice faded into the infinite mirrors around her, a flicker of determination lit in her gaze. She wiped her tears with the back of her hand, straightened her posture, and stared into her reflection.
"This is why I have to change," she muttered, her voice carrying newfound resolve. "Not for the sake of surrendering... but for the sake of standing beside him as an equal."
Makima then reflected on O-Bengh's words about humbling herself. Her sharp gaze deepened, her thoughts defiant yet focused. No, that's not me. I'm Makima, the Control Devil. After I follow the river's current, I will take it as my own. Bit by bit, I'll learn to do what Kang Woo does. I will lift the ocean and create a world, just like he did. One day.
As these thoughts emboldened her, Makima began to imagine her victory: standing proudly beside Kang Woo, ruling not just as his wife but as his equal. She envisioned the Earth—the planet of her origin—ruled under Kang Woo's absolute dominion, with her at his side.
With her confidence and courage restored, Makima raised her hand once more. Her smirk returned, faint but resolute, as she visualized the Ancient One's sanctuary.
Makima made the circular gesture again, this time with unwavering focus. Sparks of orange light burst forth, coalescing into a shimmering portal. For a moment, Makima stared at it, her breath catching as tears of pride welled in her eyes.
"I did it," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. A proud tear slid down her cheek as she stepped toward the portal. "I finally understand this world's magic. It's all about the image of winning… and that means imagination."
The Ancient One sipped her tea with calm composure, her eyes glancing toward the shimmering portal that had materialized in the sanctum's interior. Her serene expression shifted slightly, her hands forming a series of intricate gestures. A Shield of Seraphim enveloped her, accompanied by multiple Tao Mandalas, their ethereal glow invisible to the naked eye but humming with protective mystic energy.
Makima stepped through the portal with measured grace, her expression unreadable, as if carved from stone. Her sharp yellow-ringed eyes surveyed the Ancient One, yet she gave away nothing.
The Ancient One studied her carefully, her voice calm yet probing. "I thought you might attack me with the magic of your own—the darkness you wield so naturally. Perhaps even a retaliation for the trick I played on you. But instead, you let it go. Are you… being forgiving, Makima?"
Makima's lips curled into a faint smirk, but her response was as cryptic as ever. "Maybe."
As the Ancient One moved to take a step, she suddenly faltered, her balance momentarily lost. Gripping the edge of the table for support, her calm demeanor wavered. She scanned the floor, her fingers brushing against the surface, and frowned as they encountered a slick substance. Bringing her hand closer, she realized what it was.
"Baby oil," the Ancient One muttered, her brows furrowing.
Makima's smirk widened slightly, though her tone remained cold and composed. "A trick… of a trick."
The Ancient One chuckled softly, recovering her composure as she straightened. "Clever. A lesson of subtlety, perhaps?"
As the Ancient One and Makima moved about the sanctum, both of them crouched slightly to clean the slick floor. The Ancient One's hands worked methodically, while Makima's movements were efficient, her sharp gaze occasionally flickering toward her companion.
Makima broke the silence with a faint smirk. "Is there a magic that can ease this kind of… mundane work?"
The Ancient One chuckled softly, her tone light yet laced with wisdom. "Yes, there is. But the lesson is in the labor itself. Sometimes, even a good worker finds meaning in the act, no matter how troublesome the task."
Makima's smirk widened slightly, a glint of amusement in her eyes. "Troublesome, huh? Like secretlyopening a portal to a baby oil factory?"
The Ancient One paused, letting out a small laugh as she shook her head. "Your tricks are indeed troublesome, Makima. But they do reveal your resourcefulness."
With the floor finally cleaned, the Ancient One straightened and gestured for Makima to sit with her. "Now, let's move to something more… mystical. Have you ever considered the ability to separate your soul from your body? Astral projection, as we call it."
Makima raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "You mean forcing someone's soul out, or doing it to myself?"
"Both," the Ancient One replied, her calm gaze steady. "This magic can be used for a variety of purposes—learning, exploration, even combat, though I do not encourage violence unnecessarily."
To demonstrate, the Ancient One sat cross-legged and placed her hands on her chest in a meditative gesture. With a subtle shift in energy, a shimmering, translucent version of herself—the astral form—rose gracefully from her body. Her physical form remained seated, perfectly still.
Makima watched intently, her analytical mind processing every detail. After a moment, she raised her hand, her yellow-ringed eyes narrowing in focus. With a subtle flick of her wrist, she mirrored the Ancient One's gesture.
A faint glow enveloped Makima, and moments later, her own astral form emerged, standing above her physical body. The transition was smooth, and she observed her ethereal self with a mix of curiosity and satisfaction.
The Ancient One's astral form floated nearby, a serene smile gracing her face. Her voice resonated softly, carrying both approval and wisdom. "Impressive. You grasped it quickly."
Makima's astral form tilted her head slightly, a smirk returning to her lips. "Of course. Watching and adapting are what I about do best." She paused, glancing down at her physical body lying calmly below. "I have just received a great teacher, after all."
The Ancient One inclined her head, her expression warm but measured. "It's a powerful ability, but one that requires discipline and understanding. Remember, control is not just about domination—it's about knowing when to let go." Her tone shifted slightly, carrying a subtle edge. "That said, I can see you still follow your husband's footsteps, breaking the rules bit by bit. Perhaps I'm wrong—or perhaps not—about whether you can truly follow his way, which is to do whatever he wants without hesitation."
She paused, her ethereal gaze piercing Makima's. "And I will take it as a compliment, then, that I am praised as a great teacher."
Makima's smirk faltered briefly, her sharp gaze softening for a fleeting moment before determination reignited in her expression. "Understood," she said, her tone unwavering. Her astral form straightened as she met the Ancient One's gaze directly. "Now… what's next?"
After both of them returned to their bodies, the Ancient One extended her hand, conjuring a glowing portal. The swirling energy revealed a path to the snowy heights of Mount Everest. Without hesitation, the Ancient One stepped through, her robes billowing softly in the wind of the transition. Makima followed, her sharp yellow-ringed eyes scanning their new surroundings with curiosity.
As the biting cold of Everest enveloped them, Makima's voice broke the silence, carrying a hint of sarcasm. "Shouldn't you be teaching me about the Mirror Dimension instead?"
The Ancient One turned slightly, her serene expression untouched by the harsh environment. "What I'm about to teach you is far beyond the Mirror Dimension. That's merely a tool, a limiter of sorts. What I'm going to show you now is not something any Sorcerer Supreme of the past has dared to fully embrace." Her gaze grew sharper. "Tell me, Makima, have you heard the terms warp space and matter itself?"
Makima's smirk returned, tinged with pride as she replied, "My husband, Kang Woo, transformed a basement—a forgotten, desolate place—into a realm filled with snow, aurora skies, and grand castles. All with nothing but his will."
The Ancient One raised a brow, clearly impressed. "That, my dear, is an advanced form of reality manipulation—something that likely required a combination of his immense willpower and perhaps the Reality Stone itself. What I'm about to teach you doesn't compare to such grandeur, but it's a foundation. A tool. And it's dangerous."
She raised her hand, and as she channeled power from the Dark Dimension, a mark began to glow faintly on her forehead. Makima's sharp gaze narrowed as she observed the Ancient One's movements.
Extending her hands, the Ancient One made intricate gestures, the air around her crackling with energy. Suddenly, the snow-covered Everest and the space surrounding them shifted—splitting and bending without breaking. The mountain seemed to fold upon itself, the ground beneath them warping as though reality itself was rippling like water.
"This," the Ancient One said, her voice resonating with power, "is a low-level form of reality warping. By channeling energy from Dark Dimension , you can manipulate the fabric of space and matter. It's subtle but potent. Dangerous in the wrong hands."
Makima's eyes gleamed as she absorbed the sight, her mind racing with possibilities. "Interesting," she murmured. " This is where control meets creativity."
The Ancient One's expression softened slightly, though her gaze remained steady. "However, you don't need to channel power from the Dark Dimension as I do. The power you wield… it resides within you. It's innate, as though it was always meant to be yours."
Makima's sharp yellow-ringed eyes narrowed slightly, her tone a mix of curiosity and suspicion. "Are you being sarcastic or taunting me?"
"Neither," the Ancient One replied calmly. "I'm simply stating the truth. There is something inside you, something given freely—a power far beyond anything this universe has ever known. And as you grow and get stronger, it aids you, unlocking more and more of your full potential."
Makima tilted her head slightly, her voice taking on a measured tone. "Are you talking about the Commandment of Piety that resides inside me?"
The Ancient One gestured to her forehead, where the faint mark from channeling the Dark Dimension's power lingered. "Did you notice this mark on my forehead, Makima? It is the mark of one who uses the power of the Dark Dimension. And there's always a cost. Though I have subdued Dormammu's influence over me, it's a tenuous balance. Without vigilance, I could become a Mindless One—a being stripped of identity, enslaved to his will. Dormammu is a terrifying entity beyond time itself. And when my time ends, I know well that he will claim my soul."
Makima's gaze grew contemplative as the weight of the Ancient One's words settled over her. For the first time, she truly began to understand what Kang Woo's gifts to her represented. It's not just a privilege… not simply a means to elevate me to a higher being. It's something far greater—a power devoid of cost, a true testament of his will.
Her voice was quiet but resolute as she finally responded. "I understand now."
The Ancient One's expression remained serene as she continued, "And for another reason, Makima, what resides within you is not something a typical high-ranking demon would possess. It's reserved for beings of the highest tier—rulers, kings. I can't fully describe it, but I sensed something faintly similar about 300 years ago."
Makima nodded slowly, processing the information with her usual composure.
The Ancient One's tone shifted, tinged with sarcasm. "I take it you're not surprised that I've lived this long?"
Makima smirked faintly, her sharp yellow-ringed eyes glinting with amusement. "I didn't bother counting, but I've lived for more than a century. And Kang Woo—my husband—is around 10,000 years old."
The Ancient One's brow arched slightly, clearly intrigued. "Have you ever heard of Lucifer? The legendary demon from the deepest depths of Hell?"
Makima's tone remained calm, though her words carried a sharp edge. "He's dead. Kang Woo killed him and took his power—something called the Authority of Extinction."
The Ancient One's calm composure faltered slightly, a flicker of astonishment crossing her face. "Lucifer wasn't just any high-ranking demon or ruler. He was the foundation of much of what shaped the multiverse. His influence extended far beyond Hell, and his power was unparalleled. And yet… your husband killed him?"
Makima tilted her head slightly . "Lucifer is really that famous, ?"
The Ancient One nodded slowly, her tone heavy with respect and intrigue. "Famous would be an understatement. He was considered a constant—an entity beyond the reach of even gods. That your husband not only defeated him but wielded his power speaks volumes."
The revelation of kang woo enemies is actually multiversal threat make makima very shock . The Ancient One's serene expression softened as she watched Makima sit down, her sharp demeanor giving way to a rare moment of vulnerability. Tears of gratitude shimmered in Makima's sharp yellow-ringed eyes, rolling silently down her cheeks.
The Ancient One leaned slightly toward her, her tone calm but filled with genuine concern. "Are you alright, Makima?"
Makima wiped a tear away, her voice trembling slightly as she spoke, "For so many years in my world, we—the invalid beings—were nameless entities. We existed only as the embodiment of respective concepts and the fear they invoked. That was the source of our power. And yet… because Kang Woo killed most of the demons and, by default, demons never really came out to where the uppermost hell resides, we devils—who are invalid compared to demons—were able to enjoy freedom. Many times, we fought against humans because it's in our nature, but we never had to meet our king himself. I never imagined. Of all the concepts, all the invalid devils in my world, I was the one who got promoted. I was the one who had the opportunity to meet the most important man in the multiverse."
Her lips curled into a soft, bittersweet smile as she continued, her voice filled with awe. "And as my husband claims, he was once the ruler of the Ninth Hell itself. Yet he abandoned it all—not for some grand purpose, but because he wanted to eat ramen and Korean food. Then… he met me. How lucky and blessed I am to have crossed paths with him."
The Ancient One listened in silence, a faint smile of understanding playing on her lips. After a moment,
Makima's gaze shifted back to her, a flicker of curiosity replacing her gratitude. "I forgot to ask Kang Woo just how terrifying the high-ranking demons of the deepest Hell are. How powerful are they, really?"
The Ancient One's expression grew serious, her voice low and measured. "One of the Seven Demon Princes of Hell could rival Dormammu in his Dark Dimension, where his power is at its peak. And even among them, such beings are rare. Each possesses immense power and abilities that defy comprehension, along with personalities so horrifying they could drive mortals mad."
Makima leaned back slightly, her smirk returning, albeit tinged with wry amusement. "You know what's funny, Ancient One? In my world, the uppermost layer of Hell—where devils go to reincarnate—is actually closer to the First Layer of Hell itself. Kang Woo once told me that if I knew the right passage, I wouldn't even need to fight Gaia to return to my world. And maybe, just maybe, the devils in my world have never known the true terror of demons. They're already too terrified of my husband to even consider it."
The Ancient One chuckled softly, her calm demeanor returning. "Perhaps that fear is what keeps them in check. Your husband's legacy clearly extends far beyond his immediate presence."
The Ancient One's tone shifted as she straightened, a gleam of focus lighting her eyes. "Now, Makima, you've reached a state of acceptance—a clarity that makes it far easier to learn the fundamentals of reality warping. I didn't expect this to happen so soon."
Makima raised an eyebrow, curiosity laced with skepticism. "Hmm? What are you talking about?"
The Ancient One met her gaze evenly. "Your concept of control… it isn't limited to dominating living beings. Your power can extend far beyond what you've imagined. It's time to tap into that potential. Follow my gestures."
Makima stood, brushing the snow from her clothes, her sharp eyes fixed on the Ancient One. The Ancient One's movements were deliberate and fluid, her hands forming precise patterns in the air. "Warp Space and Matteras I wield it—rooted in the power of the Dark Dimension—is instinctual and difficult to teach. But I know you can achieve it."
Makima took a deep breath, her focus sharpening as she summoned every ounce of power within her. Her original power—the control concept—merged with the energy of her darkness manipulation, the negative energy fueling her essence, and the latent mana coursing through her veins. The air around her began to hum, the ground trembling faintly as the energies intertwined, coalescing within her.
The Ancient One's voice was steady, almost commanding. "Now, let go of your arrogance and ego. Embrace your acceptance. Humility does not weaken you; it strengthens you. Accept who you are and use that truth to act."
Tears welled up in Makima's eyes, the weight of her journey—her transformation—pressing on her chest. She closed her eyes, letting the emotions flow freely as she whispered to herself, I am Makima. I am control, but I am more than that. I am not my past. I am not invalid. I am worthy.
When her eyes opened, they gleamed with unparalleled clarity, her tears falling freely down her cheeks. She extended her hands, her power surging as her acceptance transformed into pure, unrestrained will. A dark aura enveloped her, shifting and shimmering with the raw energy of her being.
Makima raised her arms, her voice steady and resolute. "I am Makima. And I will show you what I can do."
The tip of Mount Everest trembled as Makima's power coursed through the mountain. The snow and rock quaked, but it didn't stop there. The entire mountain began to warp and reshape. Snow cascaded down in massive avalanches, the ground itself splitting and reforming as if answering her command. Slowly, Mount Everest was transformed—not just the peak, but the entire mountain, every inch molded by her will.
The Ancient One watched, her expression a mixture of astonishment and respect, as Makima stood amidst the chaos she had unleashed. The towering mountain shimmered with a faint, orangelight, as if it had been imbued with a fragment of Makima's essence. The storm calmed, leaving only silence and the transformed Everest, reshaped into something almost unrecognizable—an emblem of Makima's power and her acceptance.
Makima lowered her hands, her body trembling as she exhaled deeply. A faint smile graced her lips as she whispered, "I've done it , i've finally done it ."
The Ancient One stepped forward, her voice carrying a rare note of awe. "You've done more than that. You've transcended. You've embraced who you are—and in doing so, you've elevated yourself to something greater."
The Ancient One pressed her palm to the ground, resetting Everest to its original form. The once-shimmering mountain returned to its natural state, as if the monumental display of Makima's power had never occurred. With a simple circle gesture through her Sling Ring, the Ancient One opened a portal, and the two stepped through, returning to the New York Sanctum.
Once inside, the Ancient One moved swiftly, conjuring another portal. She retrieved two ornate tomes—one on Mystic Arts Magic and the other on Mirror Dimension Magic—and handed them to Makima.
Makima glanced at the books, her sharp eyes gleaming with curiosity. "We can still learn here. We still have time—as long as we have."
But before she could continue, Makima was suddenly surrounded by a glowing light that radiated from her form. Her expression tensed, and she turned to the Ancient One, demanding answers.
The Ancient One's expression softened, a touch of sadness evident in her serene demeanor. "I have time, Makima. But you… you do not. I never told you why I was pressing you so much. This is the reason. Your presence here is temporary. I can feel the strain of your timeline pulling you back to the moment where the Lost Books are located. I am very sensitive to disruptions in time, and yours is nearing its end. That's why I've been doing everything I can to pass on my knowledge—the magic where I am strongest, the Dark Dimension's magic and warp space and matteras fast I could . And for the Mirror Dimension and Mystic Arts, I trust the books I've given you will guide you."
Makima opened her mouth to respond, but before she could say anything, the Ancient One stepped forward and hugged her.
Makima froze, her sharp demeanor faltering in the face of the unexpected gesture. "What's this for?" she asked, her voice tinged with surprise as she tried to hide the fact that she was genuinely enjoying the embrace.
The Ancient One chuckled softly, her tone filled with warmth. "I know how to reorient the spirit to better heal the body. And you, my dear Makima, crave this, even if you won't admit it outright. Your husband has already given you the love and care you've longed for, but I believe it is my duty as your teacher to do so as well. If I don't nurture my disciples, I would be failing as a teacher."
For a brief moment, Makima allowed herself to let go of her control. Her arms hesitantly wrapped around the Ancient One in return. "Thank you," she murmured, her voice uncharacteristically soft.
The Ancient One stepped back slightly, her expression growing serious once more. "Makima, I have one request, if you are able to fulfill it."
Makima tilted her head, her smirk returning as she attempted to mask her emotions. "You're immortal, aren't you? If you want to buy your way out of Dormammu's clutches, I can talk to my husband."
The Ancient One smiled faintly and shook her head. "My time is near. I've seen it clearly through the Time Stone. In a few years, I will die, and Dormammu will claim my soul. But I have no desire to buy my way out. Instead, I wish to exchange my soul with your husband—the Demon King—in return for freeing all the souls trapped in the Dark Dimension, should he ever manage to kill Dormammu."
Makima's expression shifted, her composure breaking as sadness and surprise flickered in her eyes. "Why would you do that? Why wouldn't you free yourself? We could be friends… in the future."
The Ancient One placed a gentle hand on Makima's shoulder, her voice soft but firm. "Death is what gives life meaning. To know your days are numbered, your time is short. I've made mistakes in my life and as a teacher. This… this would be my way of atonement."
Makima's gaze lowered for a moment, her voice quiet but resolute. "I'll tell Kang Woo. And if he can, he'll do it—not for you, but for what you're trying to achieve. You're a better teacher than you give yourself credit for."