《Monarchs of Ruination》


 Monarchs Of Ruination!

    Gazing up at the twinkling stars in the night sky, their radiant glow appeared to whisper secrets of the universe. The sheer magnitude of the cosmos could render any mere mortal speechless, prompting them to ponder the triviality of their earthly concerns and their place in the grand scheme of things.


    In the midst of this celestial spectacle, however, a sudden darkness fell upon the heavens. Like lights flickering off during a power outage, the stars began to dim, casting an eerie shadow over the cosmos. A wave of energy surged through the universe, shattering stars and nearby planets, leaving behind a trail of cosmic chaos.


    Light years away, the eyes of distant observers were captivated by a truly awe-inspiring sight. Two ethereal figures, their forms shimmering with otherworldly energy, clashed in a battle of epic proportions. The intensity of their conflict was palpable, as their powers collided and illuminated the vast expanse of the cosmos.


    It was a scene that would forever be etched in the memories of those fortunate enough to witness it from afar.


    Were they divine entities or grotesque monstrosities? Such a question lingered in their minds.


    With each clash of their weapons, the very fabric of space trembled and fractured, unleashing devastating shockwaves that obliterated everything unfortunate enough to cross their path. It was a cataclysmic display of power, yet amidst the chaos, the combatants reveled in their destructive dance.


    Unbeknownst to the casual observer, only a true connoisseur of battles could discern the true nature of their conflict. It was not a battle fought with the intent to slay one another, but rather a relentless pursuit to annihilate all that existed. Their intentions were not driven by a desire for victory, but rather a sinister pleasure derived from the annihilation of countless lives.


    As the clash of their swords echoed through the cosmos, the magnitude of their destructive prowess became increasingly apparent. The loss of countless trillions of lives seemed inconsequential to these beings.


    The mortals found themselves with no chance to flee or grieve their losses. Destruction had come for everything they held dear.


    Their cries for help vanished like a wisp of smoke from a candle.


    The overwhelming sense of their helplessness spread across the universe, touching every planet and galaxy in its path.


    Their destructive rampage extended far beyond any conceivable distance, obliterating celestial bodies and cosmic creatures alike for what felt like an eternity. Yet, for the mortals witnessing this cataclysmic event, time seemed to crawl as their impending doom drew nearer.


    This Universe hosts an unimaginable multitude of lifeforms, numbering in the quintillions. Among them, civilizations of Humans, Demons, Beasts, and countless other species flourished under the Order and Rules set forth by those who declared themselves to be ''Gods.''


    Amidst these lifeforms exist extraordinary Cosmic Entities that dwell within the starry skies. These beings are believed to be the Universe''s chosen, favored by its will, and are considered the most powerful creatures in existence.


    Yet, gripped by an insatiable fear, the Cosmic Entities pressed forward, their immense presence leaving devastation in their wake across stars and planets. Realizing the impending collapse of the Universe, they sought refuge in its furthest edges, desperate to escape the unfolding catastrophe.


    However, they remained oblivious to the grim reality awaiting them at the Universe¡¯s periphery. Far more terrifying beings lurked at the "Edges of the Universe," more menacing than the ones they had fled. In their frantic flight, they unwittingly plunged into a domain where terror reigned supreme.


    The once serene and harmonious universe now found itself shrouded in an apocalyptic atmosphere. The inhabitants of every corner of the cosmos trembled with a sense of impending doom, falling to their knees in desperate prayer to their deities. They pleaded for an end to this nightmarish ordeal, beseeching their gods for protection and salvation.


    If only they could witness the expressions on their Gods'' faces, if only they could comprehend the magnitude of this nightmare from the perspective of their supposed divine beings. The gods, burdened with the weight of their subjects'' ignorance, could only sigh in resignation.Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.


    Since the beginning of this cataclysmic battle, the gods had been falling like broken stars, their once formidable forms succumbing to the unyielding onslaught. With each god''s demise, their bodies and souls erupted in violent explosions, giving rise to immense black holes that devoured everything within their gravitational pull.


    These black holes evolved into self-contained universes, holding the remnants of existence itself.


    Perhaps, in a rare moment since the dawn of the cosmos, the gods found themselves consumed by envy towards mortals. At least mortals were granted the privilege of reincarnation, their souls remaining intact...


    But the once-divine souls of the gods could no longer ascend to the ethereal afterlife, for their very souls were being annihilated.


    How could anyone fathom their profound despair?


    With their souls vanished, the prospect of reincarnation became an unattainable dream.


    The Gods embarked on a harrowing journey towards an abyss of emptiness, fully aware of their impending fate¡­


    IN THE CHAOTIC SPACE


    These two beings abruptly ceased their frenzied battle, as if snapping out of a trance, and scanned their surroundings, only to be met with the sight of chaos and destruction, with galaxies in ruins and space cracks oozing mysterious energy.


    Surprisingly, they did not marvel at the devastation they had caused, nor did they succumb to despair. Instead, their curiosity was piqued by the enigmatic energy that surrounded them. However, their attention soon shifted towards each other. Despite the intensity of the battle, neither of them showed any signs of exhaustion or weariness.


    It appeared as though they were anticipating the arrival of something or someone, causing them to halt their impending Armageddon. It remains uncertain whether they fought solely to gain someone''s attention or to gauge their own battle skills. However, their ultimate objective was nothing short of complete Ruination.


    Upon closer observation, they appeared not as gods or monsters, but as mere Humans. However, the colossal proportions of their bodies were so immense that even the grandeur of galaxies paled in comparison.


    Their countenances revealed a mixture of enthusiasm, as if their greatest aspirations were finally being realized, and solemnity, acknowledging the sacrifices necessary to achieve it¡­


    The question lingered in the air: what compelled them to engage in such madness?


    What unimaginable force or motive does it take for someone to unleash such catastrophic ruin upon the universe?


    And just how immense is their power to obliterate gods with nothing more than the rippling force of their shockwaves?


    Surrounded by an eerie silence, time seemed to hold no meaning for them. It was uncertain whether these two entities were consumed by grief or lost in profound thoughts. Gradually, the oppressive silence became too much to bear, compelling one of them to break free from its grasp.


    Lucas Heavenhart turned his gaze towards his brother, his voice filled with doubt. "Can this be the sole path we must take, brother?"


    In this vast and boundless universe, the inherent value of everything and everyone remains constant. However, as sentient beings, we attach different prices and significance to various aspects of life, whether they are tangible objects, desires, emotions, or even our own selves.


    The perspective of individuals can greatly influence the true worth of something. Some things may hold little significance for us, barely registering as they come into our lives. However, for the things we truly need, we relentlessly embark on a quest across the universe, leaving no stone unturned in our pursuit.


    What holds life-saving significance for you may appear as mere specks of dust in the eyes of others.


    Take, for instance, a tiny sugar cube, no larger than a grain of sand. Its value and worth may be utterly meaningless to most, but to a starving ant, it represents everything. In the face of desperation, the ant may even fight for its life over this tiny morsel.


    It is not for others to question the value of your possessions, aspirations, and concepts based on their own perspective. The determination of worth lies solely within oneself, as only you can gauge the significance of your goals and belongings, and how much effort you are willing to invest in them.


    Lucas stood at the crossroads, grappling with the value of his aspirations and the havoc he had unleashed upon the unsuspecting creatures. His gaze faltered, burdened by the countless lives he had extinguished, each one an innocent soul unjustly subjected to this abomination.


    ¡°Is this really worth it?¡±


    Lucas Heavenhart was a sight to behold, his features conveying a sense of true heroism. His golden locks flowed past his waist, matching the intensity of his golden eyes. Enormous golden wings sprouted from his back, glistening in the sunlight. The white robe he wore seemed to dance on its own accord, adding to his ethereal presence. As his sword gracefully swirled around him, it was clear that there was more to him than met the eye. The kind facade he presented was overshadowed by a mysterious aura that surrounded him.


    Lucas, with his gentle demeanor and heroic presence, had always been the embodiment of justice. However, he never anticipated the day when he would find himself mercilessly slaughtering countless innocent creatures. Despite having taken innocent lives before, the weight of his actions still left a bitter taste in his mouth.


    The very entities he had formerly safeguarded were now subjected to his sword. Many of them had once prayed to him, while others had prayed for his well-being.


    Now, he had become the very monster he had once fought against. These innocent civilians, unaware of the reasons behind their annihilation, could not comprehend why they and their future generations had to be wiped out.


    Lucas, with his piercing blue eyes, fixed his gaze on Nox Ashborn, as if hanging on every word his sworn brother would say.


    Soon, Lucas''s blue eyes filled with killing intent as he witnessed his foolish brother toying with space cracks, completely oblivious to the emotional turmoil he was going through.


    A golden radiance emanated from Lucas''s eyes as he channeled his immense energy into his sword. Without uttering a single word of caution, Lucas unleashed a powerful energy arc towards Nox''s head.


    Miraculously, Nox, who had been engrossed in playing with the unusual energy from the space cracks, narrowly dodged the incoming attack.


    As this immense energy arc traveled across the boundless reaches of space, spanning numerous light years, it left a path of destruction in its aftermath. Alas, it was an unfortunate irony that when a God coughed, it was the mortal beings who suffered the consequences, enduring floods and tornadoes.


    "What the f**k?¡± NOX couldn''t contain his frustration as Lucas abruptly interrupted his fun.


    This man possessed an incredibly attractive appearance, with long black hair cascading down his back. His eyes transitioned from a deep purple to a menacing blood red, constantly captivating those who met his gaze. Clad in a regal purple robe, he exuded an air of playfulness and nonchalance. Although he may appear distant, many would erroneously perceive him as rational due to his charming demeanor. However, concealed within those enchanting eyes lay a profound madness, emanating a perilous aura.


    NOX stared daggers at Lucas, a look of irritation etched across his face. Inside his mind, a torrent of curses flowed endlessly.


    Observing Lucas''s wavering eyes of doubt and assessment, NOX''s countenance transformed into a grave seriousness, and his eye color seemed to shift like the changing tides as they turned from purple to blood red.


    "Worth... haa?" NOX pondered to himself as he strolled leisurely, hands clasped behind his back.


    Looking at Nox, Lucas couldn''t suppress the doubt that lingered in his heart. "What if we are wrong?" His voice trembled with uncertainty. "How can you be so certain that this madness will lead us to [The Universe Core]?"


    "Brother," Nox murmured, his eyes fixed on the distant horizon, "We have come too far to indulge in such fleeting doubts."


    He turned his gaze to Lucas, his expression hardening. "And we must face the truth ¡ª we have become the Devils of this Universe."

 Chapter 2 - March Of Abominations!

    "Brother," Nox murmured, his gaze fixed on the horizon. "We have journeyed too far to entertain such fleeting doubts."


    His eyes shifted to Lucas, the weight of his words hardening his expression. "And we must confront the truth¡ªwe have become the Devils of this Universe."


    Lucas understood the full gravity of Nox¡¯s words. The sheer scale of destruction and chaos they had inflicted upon the universe was beyond comprehension. Reversing the devastation was impossible. To cease now would make every sacrifice, every life lost, a meaningless void. The lives extinguished would have been erased in vain, bereft of purpose.


    "I care not for these mortals," Nox declared, his icy gaze silencing any attempt Lucas might make to counter. "Their suffering, their injustices¡ªnone of it matters. For nothing holds weight compared to the achievement of my ultimate objective."


    In stark contrast to Lucas, Nox had always been relentless, driven by an unfathomable coldness. Once a goal captured his focus, nothing could divert him¡ªnot even death itself. His madness burned hotter than any other force.


    Lucas clenched his fist, his resolve unwavering despite the heavy burden on his heart. The task before them loomed large, but he would not falter. The final steps of this journey would be taken, no matter the cost.


    "If only she had listened," Lucas muttered, a deep sigh of regret escaping him.


    "She could never have acted differently," Nox replied, his gaze turning to the vast cracks in space. "Bound by the laws, just as mortals are tethered to their desires."


    Their exchange was brief¡ªdirect, to the point. Idle conversation was a waste of time; their purpose was clear, and their actions even clearer. They had long since transcended the limitations of emotions, far beyond the petty desires that often shaped mortal lives. They were beyond the reach of gods, having existed for untold millennia.


    ******


    At the edge of the universe, an infinite ocean of darkness stretched endlessly, its depths unfathomable. The laws that once governed this realm seemed to ebb and shift, as if the universe itself was no longer bound by the same principles.


    Within this strange and enigmatic space, strange creatures thrived. They came in every conceivable shape and size, creatures so large that even the smallest among them rivaled the size of stars. Dragons with the bodies of lions and goats, elephant-like beings with massive trunks¡ªthese were but a few of the monstrous beings who dwelled here. Phoenixes with two heads cast a grotesque image, their forms twisted and unholy.


    If one were to describe them in a single word, it would be "ABOMINATIONS." For that was precisely what they were.


    These creatures emanated an eerie white radiance, tinged with gold. Their light shone brightly enough to rival the stars themselves, though against the consuming darkness, it appeared as little more than the flicker of a candle.


    The abominations lay still, motionless, their status uncertain. Were they dead or simply waiting? No one could tell. And as the two colossal figures in the distance continued to slumber, their mere breaths obliterated entire swathes of these creatures. The air trembled with each exhale, and countless abominations perished in an instant.


    But what came next was even more chilling.


    As the fallen abominations dropped, their brethren, ravenous and unfeeling, descended upon their remains, feasting on the bodies of their own kind. The horrific scene shattered the oppressive silence, and the spectacle was so disturbing that even gods would be haunted by it.


    A tremor rippled through the air, an unmistakable disturbance that spread across the strange realm before vanishing into the darkness. Only one of the two slumbering giants noticed it, a wicked smirk curling across its lips.


    This creature, a twisted amalgamation of serpent and dragon, was VRITRA¡ªthe first abomination. His massive form slithered with terrifying grace, his azure scales shimmering in the faint light. Dark horns sprouted from his head, and his long tail writhed like that of a serpent, disappearing into the depths of the dark void.


    "The moment has come," VRITRA''s voice thundered through the Aether, causing every abomination to stir with excitement, their roars shaking the very air.


    "At last, I can finally perceive the scent of my freedom," Garuda, the second abomination, declared. His regal presence was awe-inspiring as he stretched his enormous wings, joy radiating from his every movement. A divine aura surrounded him, his golden feathers glistening with a sacred light, a stark contrast to the malevolent aura of VRITRA.


    Garuda, a majestic being with the body of a human and the head of an eagle, was a symbol of divine might and righteousness. His powerful talons, his glowing wings, and his eagle-like gaze spoke of his mastery of the heavens, a celestial being of unmatched strength and wisdom.


    With a single wave of his hand, Vritra tore open the very fabric of space itself, creating countless portals that spiraled toward the heart of the universe.


    "As the prophecy foretold, the struggle for freedom is upon us," VRITRA spoke, commanding the abominations to march into the material universe.


    After eons of dormancy, the abominations had awakened, and they now advanced toward Nox and Lucas. Their true motivations remained a mystery, for no one in the universe understood them or their desires. Yet, the fear they instilled was universal, for their mere presence sent shivers down the spines of all who felt it.Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings.


    *****


    In the vast universe, most mortals and gods had resigned themselves to their fates, waiting helplessly for their inevitable end. Yet, among the despairing masses, a few brave souls refused to yield. With righteous hearts and unwavering determination, they banded together, vowing to rise from the ashes of this apocalypse and defy the cruel destiny imposed upon them.


    On a colossal suspended asteroid, hundreds of thousands of warriors stood assembled, weapons clutched tightly in trembling hands. They faced seven majestic thrones, where the leaders of their rebellion sat in silence. Each figure emanated a commanding presence, their expressions a mixture of resolve and unspoken dread. The oppressive atmosphere pressed down on everyone, as if the universe itself mourned the battle to come.


    These seven heroes - perhaps their life stories resembled the typical ¡°protagonist¡± arc¡ªfilled with struggle, heroism, and a misguided sense of duty. Or perhaps they simply assumed that saving the universe was their natural destiny, because in their world, that¡¯s what heroes did.


    But as the tremors and shockwaves rippled across the starry sky, even the most steadfast among them could not help but tremble.


    Henry, the leader with golden hair that almost seemed to glow with pride, frowned deeply. His voice, thick with frustration, cut through the tense silence. ¡°These monsters¡­ ¡°


    ¡°Have they completely lost their minds? What are they even doing?¡± he spat, his face twisted in a mixture of hatred and helplessness.


    Ava, sitting to his right, took a deep breath, her eyes narrowing. ¡°But why is the Celestial God helping that Devil?¡± she asked, her voice quivering with disbelief. The words tasted bitter on her tongue.


    The ¡®Celestial God¡¯ she referred to was Lucas Heavenhart, a figure they had crossed paths with many times before. The seven leaders, like Lucas and the notorious Nox, hailed from the same world.


    ¡°We could understand Nox doing this,¡± Ava continued, struggling to find the words.


    ¡°But Lucas¡­ Lucas massacring innocents? That goes against everything he ever stood for.¡±


    It was one thing for Nox to unleash chaos¡ªsuch destruction was expected of him.


    But Lucas? The very idea of him slaughtering innocents was unfathomable, a complete betrayal of the ¡®Dharma Path¡¯ he had once followed.


    ¡°Maybe¡­¡± she trailed off, trying to piece together an explanation. ¡°Maybe they¡¯re trying to break their Origin Shackles, weaken the universe¡¯s will, and escape?¡±


    Lin Moyu snorted, his disdain barely contained. ¡°You think shackles could hold those two back? If they truly wanted to leave this cursed universe, they would have done so long ago. Unlike us, they aren¡¯t prisoners here.¡±


    Their arguments raged on, voices rising and falling as they struggled to make sense of the incomprehensible. Yet, even as they debated, the sky itself seemed to grow quieter.


    The tremors ceased. The distant flashes of Lucas and Nox¡¯s battle abruptly vanished.


    After a heavy pause, Kang Jin Tae, seated on the central throne, broke the silence.


    ¡°What does it matter what their motives are?¡± His voice was grim, laced with resignation. ¡°We stand no chance against them. We can either wait to die or go down fighting.¡±


    His words silenced any further debate.


    The crowd, hearing his command, erupted into a cacophony of roars and war cries. Though despair hung heavily over them, they refused to passively accept their fate.


    Just as the soldiers prepared to make their final stand, the space around them began to ripple. Thousands of portals burst open across their field of vision, their edges glowing with an otherworldly light. From the nearest portal emerged a creature of unimaginable terror¡ªa behemoth with the head of a dragon and the body of an elephant. Its roar echoed through the void, shaking the asteroid to its core.


    As more portals opened, endless hordes of abominations poured forth, their grotesque forms defying comprehension. The soldiers stared in horror, their minds reeling from the sheer magnitude of the threat.


    ¡°What¡­ what are they?¡± a soldier screamed, breaking the suffocating silence.


    ¡°A-abominations!¡± another stammered, his voice trembling with fear.


    Before they could process the nightmare before them, the abominations surged forward, descending upon them in a relentless wave.


    The once resolute battle cries dissolved into screams of despair and curses of resentment, as the monstrous horde tore through the ranks with horrifying ease.


    There was no room for negotiation. No chance for mercy.


    From their thrones, the seven leaders could no longer bear to watch. They had known this battle would be their end, but never had they imagined it would come so swiftly, so utterly hopeless.


    Yet, surrender was not an option.


    Leaping from their seats, the seven leaders soared through the air toward the chaotic battlefield. Seven streaks of light descended upon the fray as each leader chose a towering abomination among the enemy and engaged in fierce combat.


    As the battle raged on¡­


    The asteroid was drenched in blood, corpses, and gore¡ªboth human and abomination. The blood pooled ankle-deep, painting the ground in a gruesome scarlet.


    The seven leaders finally defeated their opponents. But it was far from an easy battle. Their bodies were covered in deep wounds, blood gushing from their injuries as they panted heavily, struggling to catch their breath.


    Their once-mighty army of hundreds of thousands had dwindled to mere hundreds, and even they were gravely injured.


    As the leaders tried to stabilize their wounds, portals around them began to glow with a blinding white light.


    Another wave of abominations emerged, their grotesque forms filling the battlefield. Despair gripped their hearts as they realized their struggle was akin to a mortal enduring a slow, agonizing death.


    Still, the seven leaders refused to yield. They were the protagonists of this universe, and they would not accept their end so easily.


    Their eyes blazed with defiant fire as they gripped their swords, determined to see this nightmare through to its bitter end. But the heavens seemed to mock their resolve, for what followed next extinguished their flames of hope entirely.


    ¡°Hmm¡­ What do we have here?¡±


    A mocking voice echoed from the void, followed by an overwhelming pressure that bore down upon them, forcing many to their knees. Those who resisted had their legs broken by the sheer force, but even then, they knelt unwillingly. The seven leaders fared no better, their bodies trembling under the immense pressure.


    Under their defiant gazes, two colossal figures materialized, their sizes beyond comprehension. It was VRITRA and Garuda.


    As they looked upon the two figures, the seven leaders felt their last sliver of hope slip away. They understood now that survival was no longer an option.


    VRITRA and Garuda shifted, their massive forms transforming into humanoid shapes.


    ¡°This universe is truly unusual,¡± VRITRA mused, his gaze fixed on the seven leaders. ¡°Not only did it birth those two monsters, but it also produced you little monsters.¡± A playful grin spread across his face.


    ¡°Why are you kneeling? You¡¯re being too polite, but I¡¯ll accept your respectful intentions. You are the protagonists of this universe. Now stand up! Defeat me! Defy your fates and emerge victorious against overwhelming odds,¡± VRITRA ¡®encouraged¡¯ mockingly.


    ¡°Rise from your knees like a phoenix rising from the ashes. Defy your¡ª¡±


    VRITRA¡¯s exaggerated speech was cut short as Garuda shook his head, clearly unimpressed by his theatrics.


    The seven leaders¡¯ faces turned ashen at VRITRA¡¯s taunts, yet they still gazed at him with unyielding defiance. They refused to let him have his way. Even in death, they would not be reduced to mere playthings for his amusement.


    Noticing their unwavering gazes, VRITRA sighed in irritation. He had seen too many protagonists of their kind¡ªalways clinging to their defiance like it was their ultimate power. He quickly lost interest in the fight.


    ¡°Fine! Have it your way,¡± he muttered, raising a finger. A faint black energy shot forth, splitting into seven streaks of light that hurtled toward the leaders, intending to obliterate them.


    Just as the black streaks were about to strike, a sword energy sliced through the air, nullifying the attack.


    The seven leaders turned their eyes toward the direction the sword energy had come from. There, a silhouette emerged¡ªa lone figure walking toward them with a sword in hand. As the figure drew closer, recognition dawned upon them.


    It was the Dharma Sword God.


    Their faces twisted into bitter smiles. Even with his arrival, they held no hope. They knew there was no one in this universe capable of defeating VRITRA and Garuda.


    The Sword God was a strikingly handsome young man, a Dharma mark etched upon his forehead. He carried a wooden sword in his hand, with two sheaths fastened to his waist.


    Ignoring the seven leaders entirely, he walked straight toward VRITRA. The usually playful VRITRA regarded him with newfound interest.


    The Sword God sheathed his wooden sword and drew a rusty blade from one of his sheaths. Pointing it toward VRITRA, he spoke calmly, his voice devoid of arrogance, carrying only a simple request.


    ¡°I am Karthikeya, and I wish to test my final and strongest sword on you.¡±


    Amused, VRITRA gave a slight nod, accepting the challenge