#ashborn

[sikyulioness]

Could you do one that's reader and Ashborn, something that's kinda fluff. Where like, reader introduces Ashborn to positive physical interaction. (He's been through so much I just want to hug him! 😭)

Aww that's so cute 🥺

______. ._______

A Touch of Light

Ashborn was not accustomed to touch.

In his long existence, hands had only ever reached for him in violence. Grasping, tearing, demanding—always seeking power, never offering warmth. Even before he became the Shadow Monarch, before the heavens cast him down, he had been a god of destruction. Untouchable. Distant. Alone.

And yet, there you were.

A mere human, standing before him without fear. Your presence was as soft as the wind that passed through the ruins where he often lingered, a place long abandoned by time. You were nothing like the beings he had known before. You were not made of divinity, nor of monstrous power. And yet, somehow, you unsettled him more than any warrior ever had.

It started small.

The first time you touched him, it had been an accident—your fingertips brushing against the edge of his armored gauntlet as you reached for something beside him. He had gone rigid, shadows curling instinctively around him like a beast prepared to strike. But you had only blinked at him, unafraid.

"You’re colder than I expected," you murmured.

He did not respond. What was there to say? He had not known warmth in centuries.

The second time, it was intentional.

You had found him sitting beneath the remnants of an ancient tree, its branches long dead but still standing. He often stayed there, watching the sky, lost in thoughts that spanned eternity.

"You look tired," you said.

He did not answer. A god does not grow weary. But something in the way you frowned at him made his chest feel... heavy.

Before he could react, you reached out, resting your palm against his forearm. Not in battle. Not in reverence. Just touch—gentle, warm, grounding.

He did not move.

No one had ever touched him like that.

"You’re really cold," you murmured again, rubbing his arm absentmindedly, as if trying to bring warmth to something long since frozen. "Does it hurt?"

He stared at you. The question made no sense. Pain was an old companion, one he had long since stopped acknowledging. But this? This strange, unfamiliar warmth spreading through him? He did not know what to make of it.

And yet, he did not pull away.

Over time, it became a pattern.

Small, fleeting touches. A hand brushing against his when you handed him something. The press of your palm against his back as you walked beside him. One time, you had even reached up, brushing stray strands of his dark hair away from his face without a second thought.

He did not understand.

Why did you do these things?

Why did you not recoil from him, as all others had?

One night, as you both sat in silence beneath the ruined sky, he asked you.

"Why do you touch me?"

You tilted your head, as if the question itself was strange. "Because I want to."

He frowned. That was not an answer.

Seeing his confusion, you sighed and shifted closer, your knee brushing against his. "You’ve been alone for a long time, haven’t you?"

Alone.

The word settled over him like a weight. He had never considered it before. He had been beyond such things, beyond the need for companionship. Or so he had believed.

"You don’t have to be," you continued, voice softer now. "I don’t know what you’ve been through, Ashborn. But... you don’t always have to be untouchable."

Untouchable. That, too, had been a truth he had never questioned.

Until now.

Without thinking, he reached out.

It was awkward—hesitant, almost clumsy. His hand hovered near yours, unsure of how to proceed. He had wielded power beyond comprehension, had ended civilizations with a mere gesture. And yet, the simple act of reaching for your hand felt... foreign.

You noticed. Instead of waiting, you closed the distance yourself, intertwining your fingers with his.

Warmth.

A slow, quiet thing. Not the fire of battle, nor the blaze of destruction. Just warmth—steady, certain, human.

"You see?" You smiled at him, giving his hand a small squeeze. "Not so bad, right?"

Ashborn did not answer. He only stared at your joined hands, at the quiet miracle of it.

And for the first time in countless centuries, he felt something shift deep within him.

Something fragile.

Something warm.

---

The change was gradual.

At first, Ashborn remained still whenever you touched him, as if uncertain whether he should allow it. Then, slowly, he began to accept it. He no longer flinched when your fingers brushed his, nor did he tense when you leaned against him on colder nights.

But an embrace? That was different.

You never forced it, never pushed him beyond what he was ready for. But one evening, when exhaustion weighed heavy in your own limbs, you found yourself dozing off beside him, your head naturally resting against his shoulder.

He froze.

For a long moment, he did nothing.

Then, cautiously, he shifted—not away from you, but toward you. The movement was small, hesitant, but unmistakable. You felt the tension ease from his frame, the weight of his presence settling more comfortably against yours.

It was the first time he had ever let himself be held.

And it would not be the last.

---

One night, the stars burned bright, casting silver light upon the ruined world around you.

Ashborn stood beside you, watching the sky, silent as ever.

Then, without warning, he turned to face you fully.

You blinked up at him, surprised by the intensity of his gaze. "What is it?"

He did not answer.

Instead, he reached out—deliberately, purposefully—and cupped your cheek in his hand.

It was the first time he had ever touched you on his own.

His palm was cool against your skin, his fingers surprisingly gentle as they traced the curve of your jaw. It was as if he were memorizing the sensation, committing the warmth of you to memory.

You leaned into his touch instinctively, eyes softening. "Ashborn..."

His thumb brushed over your cheekbone. A quiet exhale left him, something close to wonder flickering in his expression.

"I did not know," he murmured, voice almost reverent.

"Did not know what?" you whispered.

"That touch could feel like this."

You covered his hand with your own, pressing his palm more firmly against your cheek. "And how does it feel?"

He hesitated, searching for the right words. Then, at last, he answered.

"Warm."

A slow smile spread across your face. "Good. Then we'll just have to make sure you get used to it."

And for the first time in centuries, the Shadow Monarch let himself believe in something other than war.

He let himself believe in your warmth.

___

The End

[pa1nrema1ns]

Master and Apprentice || Sung Jin-woo (Part 1 of 3)

Siren!Jin-woo x Deaf!Omega!reader

A/N - Hello everyone! This fic was inspired by the lovely @forbidden-sunlight's siren!au. We both collaborated on this piece and it serves as a direct sequel to her imagine, so do be sure to check it out first! This story picks up right where her imagine left off.

╰┈➤ Chapter Index

🪸 Prequel by @forbidden-sunlight 🌊 Part 2: Two Intertwining Melodies 🦈Part 3: In a Sea of Fire

Content warnings: 18+ MDNI, mythical creatures au, canon divergent, a/b/o dynamics, afab!reader, suggestive themes, obsessive thoughts, slightly ooc Jin-woo (he's very reverent towards Ashborn), mentions of violence, death, and despair, forbidden romance (humans and sirens are natural enemies), eventual yandere!Jin-woo.

Word Count - 3.6k

Summary - Sung Jin-woo seeks answers about his potential mate from Ashborn in the deepest depths of the abyss.

Dividers by @anitalenia and @firefly-graphics

After what feels like an eternity, Jin-woo comes to an abrupt stop. He wasn’t tired in the slightest, but he couldn’t finish this journey unless he was in the right frame of mind. If he was going to face the sea monarch, Ashborn, then he needed to compose himself. He was his mentor’s prized disciple, after all.

Resolute in his decision, Jin-woo pinches his brow, shuts his eyes, and releases a deep, suffering sigh. He had to stop ruminating over the useless ‘what ifs’ of his current situation and focus on the matter at hand. You emitting pheromones in his presence was proof enough that you were a compatible mate, but this would be meaningless if you were unreceptive to him. It also begs the question, was humanity even capable of consorting with sirens? In search of an answer, he reminisces about the tales of old passed down by generations of his kin, as well as the many speculations made by humans.

No one knew the exact origins of his species. Most humans assumed the progenitors were Persephone’s handmaidens, punished by Demeter after Hades had taken her daughter to the underworld and forced her into becoming his queen. Some stories also claimed that seafoam  birthed them, but Jin-woo scoffed at this particularly ridiculous rumor. A scholar had recently published an article on how sirens may actually be the offspring of the river deity Achelous and a divine songstress, citing notations from various mythos on this theory. In truth, reality was far simpler than any of these far-fetched narratives.

There was just no definitive explanation for the existence of sirens. They were not interchangeable with the peaceful denizens of the ocean, known as mermaids and mermen. While all fell under the umbrella of the term ‘merfolk,’ the sirens had a far more hostile and bloodstained relationship with humans.

Since time immemorial, his brethren were viewed as nothing but a scourge upon this world of humanity. Beautiful as a raging typhoon and every bit as devastating, the sirens served as harbingers of doom and destruction for those foolish enough to risk the perilous waters. Their heavenly voices were tantamount to the funeral dirges used to usher the dead into the afterlife. It would be understandable to believe that the sirens were the monsters in this baleful story. However, human nature at its core is fraught with wickedness, and men soon grew wise to the machinations of merfolk.

Odysseus was the first to survive an encounter with sirens. During his voyage to Ithaca, the cunning man had instructed his crew to plug their ears with beeswax, effectively blocking the intoxicating songs that had ended the lives of so many before them. Emboldened by the success of Odysseus’s scheme, other sailors began using this method to conquer the sea and establish trade routes. Within a matter of a couple hundred years, humans not only overcame their fear of sirens, but they also poached them. Huntsmen would capture, torture, and kill Jin-woo’s ancestors simply for crossing paths with them. Worse yet, these scoundrels would often murder merfolk solely to harvest their organs, bones, and scales. They would then use the defiled corpses as ingredients for commodities, medication, and even aphrodisiacs. It was truly grotesque, if not outright barbaric, and more than justified the ire his kind felt towards humanity. While they hunted for the noble sake of survival, men did it for bloodsport and money.

The horrific fates suffered by many of their beloved brothers and sisters particularly infuriated the alphas, with their robust constitutions and natural sense of leadership. With a thirst for vengeance, they began targeting and attacking ships, ports, and even beaches. The alphas considered any place or vehicle that harbored humans as eligible targets. The less temperamental betas remained neutral and avoided the bloodshed, opting to prey upon shoals of fish and other maritime animals instead. Omegas could not join in the hunt, as they were far too precious to lose. They were the most cherished and talented singers amongst the sirens and required around-the-clock protection because of their significant rarity. These were the origins of the current hierarchical structure Jin-woo adhered to.

After recalling the tumultuous history of his people in its entirety, Jin-woo clenches his fists until his knuckles turn white. This was so damn frustrating! Rather than granting him an understanding of his attraction, it just proved all the more why it was so illogical. 

Defeated, Jin-woo raises his head, opens his eyes, and continues to swim.

Another hour passes before he finds himself at the ingress of Ashborn’s lair. His enigmatic teacher lived in almost complete obscurity. Devoid of any light, and enveloped by a suffocating aura, this nautical cavern intimidated all who dared to approach it. Well, almost all that is apart from Jin-woo. He effortlessly permeates the invisible barrier designed to keep intruders at bay and ventures into his master’s spiritual domain.

Despite being an ancient and powerful king of the sea, Ashborn made the strange decision to emulate a land-like environment in his personal chambers.

As Jin-woo manifests into the realm, his appearance gives way to a form more befitting of a land dweller. His tail separates into two legs, his scales smoothen into skin, and he loses the winged fins on his ears and back. Once finished with this metamorphosis, Jin-woo takes a deep breath. Fresh pine, grass, and flowers perfume the air as he’s greeted by a lush valley. It had been a while since he had visited, and the setting had required him to transform into a human. Interestingly, transfiguration was one of the first skills Ashborn taught him. Speaking of his mentor –

“My disciple, it is good to see you again, though you appear…troubled. Tell me, what ails you so?” A rumbling voice rings across the horizon, signaling Ashborn’s approach; the tenebrous essence of the powerful deity contrasting with the greenery of the land. He appears in front of Jin-woo as a great dark knight. Much like his surroundings, Ashborn’s current visage was nothing but an illusion. Even the bravest of warriors said that his lifelike image invoked sheer terror in their hearts.

Many speculate he possesses a massive stature, at least several leagues in height and breadth alone, with piercing eyes and endless tendrils of dark hair. Others claim he is the son of Poseidon, one of the twelve Olympians, and a God of destruction who presided over the sea. However, Jin-woo never once witnessed this side of his teacher in all the years he’s been under his mentorship. Ashborn certainly exuded dignity, but he still displayed a humble attitude. And without fail, he would always appear in that strange, armored suit whenever he was in Jin-woo’s presence.

“My teacher, I must ask for your help on an urgent matter,” Jin-woo starts, anxiously running his tongue across his bottom lip. “This morning, while I was scavenging, I stumbled across the unmistakable aroma of an unmarked omega. It…it was unlike anything I had ever experienced before. As if I was being beckoned by someone or something. I wanted, no, I needed to heed its call.”

Ashborn listens in silence, his expression indiscernible. Jin-woo continued.

 “When I arrived, I was in front of a monstrosity of a ship – a yacht right by the sandbanks. At first, I assumed that someone had taken an unfortunate siren captive. But when I finally saw her–”

“You recognized she was human. Not only that, but she belongs to the lowest level of the hierarchy, an omega. Speak if I am wrong, my dear pupil.” Jin-woo lowers his head in shame, fringe obscuring his eyes. This action all but confirms it.

“I don’t know what to do or how to proceed, teacher. Everything I’ve learned about these creatures has made me detest them. But I can’t bring myself to hate her. How could this even be possible? We are not even of the same species. She’s my enemy, my prey…. At least, she’s supposed to be.” His voice lowers into a near whisper as he ends his confused rambling.

“And yet you don’t view her that way, do you child?” Ashborn poses a question he already knows the answer to but needs to hear in his pupil’s own words.

“No, I don’t,” Jin-woo replies grimly. “I yearn to know more about her. And not just that. I want to meet her, court her, and make her mine. If she’ll even have me, that is… So please, teacher, tell me if there is any meaning behind what I feel. Am I destined for something that bears no place in reality?”

Ashborn remains uncharacteristically quiet while faced with such a loaded question. All is eerily silent for a few moments, save for the cheerful chirping of the illusionary songbirds. At last, the monarch gazes at Jin-woo and gives him the answer he so desperately desires.

“It is entirely possible Sung Jin-woo, alpha of Jindo island, for I am proof of such a fantastical circumstance. My first and only love was also a human omega. A woman I devoted my entire being to over a millennium ago.”

Jin-woo’s eyes widened in shock at this revelation. His mentor had fallen in love at some point, and it was with a member of the human race? This was unheard of.

“I never knew you had a lover,” Jin-woo murmurs softly. “What was she like? Do you still remember everything about her after so many years?”

“Let me show you, my disciple. It is a tragic tale that words alone cannot properly convey.” With a wave of Ashborn’s hand, their surroundings began to morph and alter. The valley transforms into a spacious, yet quaint medieval village composed of several wooden houses with a bustling marketplace at its center.

When Jin-woo regains his bearings, he notices his mentor has also metamorphosized. A man with a sun kissed complexion, long dark hair, and a beard stands where he once stood. Though visibly unrecognizable, he was unmistakably Ashborn. A crimson cape was clasped to the pristine silver armor he wore. A paladin. Jin-woo recalls. He had some knowledge of the past lives of men through his rare excursions onto the Mainland. While disguised as a human, Jin-woo once traded in his goods for a textbook on history. He was loath to admit just how intriguing he had found it.

Ashborn speaks, his voice no longer resonating within the confines of shadowy steel.

“It was here in this village that I came across her. She was the only daughter of a peasant farmer. A strong-willed, rapscallion of a woman with a wit sharper than any blade. I can remember her beauty, her warmth, and her tenacity as clear and concise as the day we met.” He says with a wistful gaze. The scene then shifts to a woman in a pure white gown. Her eyes remained hidden, but it did nothing to impede upon her loveliness. The woman runs animatedly towards a man who looks identical to Ashborn’s borrowed likeness and leaps into his arms. The man then effortlessly spins her around before bringing her into a kiss. Jin-woo watches on, mesmerized by what was unfolding in front of him.

“I feared her rejection once she knew the truth of my identity,” Ashborn admits. “On the night we first made love, I finally revealed to her my status as ruler of the sea. However, it did not matter. She loved me wholly and unconditionally, regardless of who or what I was. Such was the strength of her resolve.” In the next instance, they return to the same valley from earlier. What differs this time is that the man and woman are there, unacknowledging of Jin-woo and Ashborn’s presence. Lost in their own special world. The woman has a flower crown on her head, and she sits on the grass, holding the man’s head in her lap. Both appear happy and at ease.

“For the first time in my existence, I experienced true contentment. I long to return to those days, but alas, our bliss did not last.”

Ashborn solemnly shuts his eyes as darkness overtakes the sky and rain falls. The man is now shown standing at a grave with an expression of anguish marring his face. The woman is nowhere to be seen, although Jin-woo knows exactly where she’s at.

“A plague was scourging the land and indiscriminately ending the lives of thousands. I tried to protect her with my magic, but it was to no avail. She fell gravely ill despite my best efforts. I discovered shortly thereafter that omegas were more susceptible to sickness than their contemporaries. If I had known beforehand, I would’ve brought her to the sea with me, away from that damned disease. But I was a fool who was willing to love and live with her as a man, not as a king. And as punishment for my hubris, an ailment snuffed out her life.”

At the end of his recollection, Ashborn’s lair returns to its original state. His mentor had also regained his shadowy exterior. The valley appears completely untouched by time, as if it were still one thousand years in the past. That’s why his lair looks like this. Jin-woo thinks as he finally recognizes its significance, It was their personal sanctuary. After a few moments of silence, Ashborn speaks.

“Although our circumstances are similar, you still have the privilege of choice. I cannot turn back time, nor can I change the past, but I am grateful. I experienced unspeakable grief, yes, but I also would have never encountered such love, tenderness, and passion had I not taken a chance on my omega. You, my disciple, still have free rein over your decision. Should you choose to pursue this woman, you have my blessing and irrefutable proof that she is a viable mate for you. If not, you will still receive my unwavering support in your future endeavors. The choice is yours to make.”

Jin-woo’s throat bobs. He feels an incredible sense of guilt at unearthing his master’s secret.

“My teacher, I apologize for prying into your past. I – I did not mean to bring up painful memories for you. I cannot imagine what you have endured. As of right now, I am not sure what it is I want, but I know for a fact I cannot give up on this human. I will need some time to contemplate and sort out my feelings. If you will excuse me.”

Jin-woo bows his head before turning to take his leave. As he approaches the exit, a sudden thought emerges at the forefront of his mind.

“Teacher, there is one more question I must ask. This human, she does not speak with words. She communicates with her hands and gestures. Is this some type of sorcery or spell that she’s casting?”

“It is most likely sign language, a manner of non-verbal communication used by humans who are unable to vocalize or hear. Perhaps she cannot speak, or has a hearing impairment, so she must express herself through other means.” Ashborn answers, curiosity lacing his voice.

Jin-woo feels his heart sinking. A siren’s serenade played a pivotal role in the mating ritual and was performed just prior to consummating an eternal bond. If what Ashborn said is true, then there is a possibility you could be immune to his song. This meant he wouldn't be able to use it on you when the time came…

He grits his teeth as he remembers your smiling face. Try as he might, Jin-woo just could not get you out of his head, nor was he willing to let you escape his grasp. You may not have realized it yet, but you had unknowingly sunk your fangs into him and the seeds of obsession were already beginning to take root. Rather than being discouraged by Ashborn’s observation, he instead finds himself reinvigorated.

“Teacher, disregard everything I said earlier. I now know what it is I must do.”

Ashborn peers into the eyes of his disciple, relieved by the determination that lights them. This was much more like the obstinate young man he knew.

“I choose to seek this omega and stake my claim, no matter what challenges may await the two of us,” Jin-woo proclaims proudly. “I will make her mine, but only if she consents to my proposal. And if not through song, then through other courtship methods. I am strong, stronger than any other alpha in my territory, and I know I can protect her from all who would wish her harm. I won’t let my mate slip through my fingers.”

“But what of maladies and the passage of time? You can fight against gods and monsters until the end of your days, but sickness or her ephemeral lifespan will not spare this young woman. In the end, your time with her shall be fleeting.” Ashborn ruthlessly counters Jin-woo’s declaration of protection.

Jin-woo bites his lip, not expecting this development. However, before he can muster a response, his mentor graces him with an answer.

“I know of one way you can overcome this. There is a recipe for an elixir known as the Holy Water of Life. It is a miraculous potion that can imbue invulnerability to communicable diseases, extend lifespan, and transform the consumer into a siren. I unfortunately did not have knowledge of such a panacea while I was with my love. Of course, I live with the regret of not discovering it sooner, as now I have no such use for it, but this does not mean I will idly stand by and let history repeat itself with my protégé.”

With a flash of light, an ancient scroll appears in front of Jin-woo. It unravels by itself to reveal its contents to him. Jin-woo’s eyes widen as he reads. Is this…?

“Behold. The ingredients for crafting the Holy Water of Life. I bequeath this boon unto you, my disciple. However, heed my warning as the acquisition of these components requires you to conquer all 100 floors of the Demon’s Castle and to defeat its king, Baran. This is a treacherous dungeon that may claim your life if you are unprepared for it, but it can also impart you with unspeakable power should you prevail.”

Jin-woo perks up at this information, his interest now fully piqued. “Tell me, master, where can I find the Demon’s Castle?”

“It hides far away, in the city of Seoul, within an incorporeal dominion. It is a flame-ridden landscape that will require you to assume the form of a human to enter the castle. Knowing all the risks it entails; do you still accept my offer?”

“I do,” Jinwoo confidently states.

“Very well,” Ashborn nods his assent, and a key materializes into Jin-woo’s palm.

“Use this key to open the gate to the Demon’s Castle. I have also implanted it with the coordinates to the dungeon’s location. You need only close your eyes and grasp onto the key to visualize it.”

Following the instructions, Jin-woo sees a map that details the exact distance from his current whereabouts to the metropolitan area of Seoul. It will be a lengthy trip, even with his impressive swimming prowess. He estimates it will take roughly half a day to arrive at his destination. Undeterred, Jin-woo presses onward.

“Teacher, I cannot thank you enough for all your help and guidance over these last few years. I give you my word; I will return alive and well, both with the elixir and Baran’s head. And then I will meet with the omega and court her in earnest.”

He departs without another word, although his promise relays an unspoken farewell between them. After some time passes, Ashborn stares at the vast skies of his domain and muses to himself.

“You have grown so much from when I rescued you from the Cartenon Temple all those years ago, Sung Jin-woo. I could not be prouder of you, my disciple. Till our next encounter.”

12 hours later...

Jin-woo finally emerges from the dark, briny waters that frame Seoul’s coastline.

After leaving Ashborn’s lair, he briefly returned home to pack and prepare for the journey ahead. Both Jin-ah and his mother were worried about his sudden departure, so he did the best he could to assuage their fears by giving them a sanitized version of the truth.

Jin-woo claimed Ashborn had provided him with a list of rare ingredients that were only available for purchase in the human markets at Seoul. He even promised to bring back a box of chocolates as a souvenir, something his mother and little sister had enjoyed during one of his return trips to the surface. He then traveled the full 413-kilometer distance from Jindo-gun to Seoul, stopping only for a few hours to rest and recuperate.

As he approaches land, he assumes the form of a naked human man and walks inland from the sea. However, Jin-woo comes to a halt when he becomes more aware of his current state of nudity. While it didn’t bother him, it would cause a lot of unnecessary trouble if any nosy beachgoers happened upon him and asked questions. It is also…pretty embarrassing to admit that he is…wobbly on these legs. Very much so.

He quickly summons his magical inventory and grabs a simple black t-shirt, boxers, fitted jeans, and athletic sneakers (‘Adidas’, the portly sales attendant had called them). As worthless as he found human decorum to be, Jin-woo needed to remain as inconspicuous as possible while he was in disguise. Once dressed, he strolled into the city. After 45 minutes, he found himself at the designated street junction on the map. Taking a deep breath, he brings forth the key, turns it, and unlocks the gate. 

⚓︎ To be continued...

[beargyufairy]

The water's getting colder

Let me in your ocean

Swim

[sayonara363]

Headcanons for Bellion

Because why not?

-Bellion is an angry little feral dog when he is with Ashborn. When he is with Jinwoo he turns into the most behaved dog who knows 300 commands and does them perfectly.

-Bellion is the parent who was left with a custody of a child (Jinwoo) he did NOT expected.

-Bellion is the one that curses out loud and Ashborn is there to close his mouth.

-Jinwoo likes Bellion’s wings.

-Bellions and the shadow angels (and actually what are they named?) adore Jinwoo. To such extent they just randomly pet him on the head.

-Bellion liked Igris when he joined the shadow army. Then he proceeded to beat him to make him stronger. Tough love.

-Bellion is a pilot of a jet without a license.

-Thomas likes Bellion. Bellions couldn’t care less about Thomas. Thomas thinks he is so badass for walking the whole way up to Jinwoo stand before him for a few seconds and then drop to one knee still looking badass.

-Bellion can casually grab a dragon by its tail.

-Bellion tried to ride a horse like Ashborn but failed miserably.

-Bellion was the one that made Jinwoo’s armour when fighting woth monarchs.

-Bellion in the end still succeeded on making a flag for the shadow army and Jinwoo even approved it.

-Bellion doesn’t like fistfighting.

-Bellion couldn’t care less about many people but he cares a lot for the shadow soldiers despite being harsh on them.

-Bellion showed Beru his tough love. Igris could be seen happy that he did his time.

-Bellion is chill.

-Bellion likes to see how Jinwoo sleeps.

-Jinwoo made a photo with every single one of the shadows he named personally. The exception being Bellion. And also the three dragons due to them throwing a tantrum.

-Bellion made a system that when a certain shadow becomes really really strong it gets a new name from their liege. Jinwoo needed a lot of time to think of names. But just so you know when Jinwoo got really desperate, there are shadows named after the national level hunters.

-Beru tried introducing Bellion to history kr dramas but Bellion was more interested in the European Middle Ages.

-Bellion has tea partys with Igris

-Bellion doesn’t miss Ashborn to an extreme degree. Not because he doesn’t care about him but because he learned to let go of things way faster than Ashborn ever did.

-Ashborn never really told his real name to Bellion.

-Bellion was on ruler’s side.

-Bellion sometimes grateful that Jinwoo isn’t completely like Ashborn despite their similarities.

-Bellion likes to tell stories and the only one who hears through all of them is Jinwoo and Ashborn.

-Bellion thinks that Ashborn just needed more time to realise that Absolute being was bad. Rulers didnt give him enough time to process all of it.

BONUS!!!

Hear me out on Bellion- *gets stared at

Wh- what??? Have you seen that man???? That gentle smile??????

But yea I threw angst on the end. And also Bellion is such a cool character why we don’t have more about him? AGH!

Also Ashborn was created by Absolute being or from this world tree? Because I think that Ashborm was created by absolute being personally and Bellion was born from the world tree

[shamefulzombie]

[immortalwalnut]

What if- ‘Shadow Dragon’

Based on ‘Chosen by Shadow, Beloved by Flame’

Because it’s literally the fic that got me into Solo Leveling

[monoleander]

I don't understand why there aren't more people going crazy over Ashborn like I am...

I MEAN I've seen a few people bUT COME ON! I get that people like characters like Sung Jin-Woo more (don't get me wrong, I like him a lot too.) But I need more people talking about Ashborn as well. He deserves all the love and attention too.

Look at this absolute unit of a man! He's built like a tank and probably hits like one too.

You're cloak isn't going to hide ANYTHING from me!!! (Anyways)

Despite being the OG Shadow Monarch, he doesn't get much attention which is just sad since he has such a good character design (*AHEM*) and interesting background. Even Igris and Bellion get more stuff than him (his own shadow soldiers *cries*). That's also probably due to the really small amount of screentime he got...

Actually, I am really glad that people are starting to talk about him though. Now I don't have to hide my interest in him and be scared that people will judge me for being the weird person who likes the really buff, brooding shadow warrior.

Hopefully, he'll get more hyped up once he appears in the anime (after 10 years maybe). Until then I'll have to survive on whatever I can find about him to feed my hungry soul.

This definitely won't be the last time I talk about him either.

[mrpeepington-peep]

Doot Doot Drawing

I once had a thought.

A thought about a Solo Leveling/Hollow Knight crossover fic.

eh. I don't know tho. What do you think?

[mossterunderthebed]

just finished reading the entirety of Solo Leveling after getting hooked on the anime and ough.

OUGHHHHHHHHH

[stormdragon23]

Solo Leveling ships where it's: The one everyone fears > The one not afraid of them

[little-shadow-club]

Incorrect Monarchs (+others) Quotes

Just in case index:

Ashborn (Shadow Monarch) Antares (Destruction Monarch) Brightest (Brightest Fragnment of Brilliant Light) Queresha (Plague Monarch) Tarnak (Iron Body Monarch) Raikan (Beast Monarch) Sillad (Frost Monarch) Ammut (Tarnak's former teacher. SL Ragnarok character) Legia (Monarch of titab's beginning ) Yogummunt (Monarch of transfiguration) Absolute Being

Ammut (Former teacher of Tarnak, hc: father figure)

This is all just headcanon feel free to read at your own risk

Tarnak to Jinwoo: Ha! What are you gonna do? Stab me? Five minutes later Tarnak, calling 911: HELP, IVE BEEN STABBED.

-

Brightest: Forgive me Father, for I have sinny-sin-sinned.

-

Absolute Being: I assume you realize that this kind of idiocy will not be tolerated in this house. Brightest: Is there any kind of idiocy you would be more comfortable with?

-

Tarnak: finds half a watermelon at Whole Foods Tarnak, holding it up for everyone to see: LIES!

-

Brightest: You know what your problem is? Antares: I only have one?

-

Absolute Being: You know, people treat me like a god. Yogummunt: How? Absolute Being: They ignore my existence unless they need something.

-

Antares: I have yet to encounter a problem where a sword didn't factor into the solution at least in some way.

-

Yogummunt: Queresha… Queresha: I can tell by the tone of your voice that you are disappointed. Alas, I must further disappoint you by affirming how little I give a fuck.

-

Legia: Rules were made to be broken. Brightest: They were made to be followed. Nothing is made to be broken. Tarnak: Uh, piñatas. Ashborn: Glow sticks. Sillad: Karate boards. Yogummunt: Spaghetti when you have a small pot. Legia: Rules. Brightest:

-

Legia: Where the hell is Yogummunt? Tarnak: Well, it is raining outside… Maybe they melted? Raikan: Shall I look outside for a pointy hat?

-

Ashborn: Queresha, you need to react when people cry. Queresha: I did. I rolled my eyes.

-

Tarnak, on the phone: I better go…kay, call me later… byeeee! Ammut: Friend of Yours? Tarnak: Nope, wrong number. Ammut: ???

-

Tarnak: Are you alright? Ashborn: Short answer or long answer? Tarnak: Short? Ashborn: No. Tarnak: Long? Ashborn: Nooooooo.

-

Antares: What is wrong with you? Ashborn: Loaded question. Elaborate.

-

Queresha: Do you have a superpower? Ashborn: Hindsight. Queresha: …that’s not going to help us. Ashborn: Yes, I see that now.

-

Tarnak: I think it’s time I get my life in order. Sillad, narrating: But they did not get their life in order. In fact, they got drunk last night and fought a raccoon.

-

Tarnak: Can we go to a haunted house? Ashborn: What’s wrong with the one we live in? Tarnak: Wh-what? Ashborn: Goodnight, Tarnak.

-

Antares: You know, there’s only one person in this world who can tell you what you are. Raikan: Me. Antares: No. Antares: Me.

-

Queresha: What's the scariest horror movie you've ever watched? Yogummunt: IT. Legia: Annabelle. Raikan: Paranormal Activity. Ashborn: High School Musical. All throughout high school I was scared that everyone was gonna randomly get up and start singing and dancing, and I would be the only one who doesn't know the words.

-

Yogummunt: I am strong! I beat Raikan at arm wrestling! Ashborn: Anyone can beat Raikan at arm wrestling. Raikan: Hey-

-

Brightest: Here you go, Sillad, a nice hot cup of coffee! Sillad: It's cold. Brightest: A nice cup of coffee. Sillad: It's horrible! Brightest: Cup of coffee. Sillad: I'm not sure if this even IS coffee. Brightest: C U P.

-

Antares: If the Absolute Being is ever been mad at anything I’ve ever said, he hasn’t done shit about it. Antares: So he either doesn’t care or he’s a coward.

-

Yogummunt: Lol. Heads up if you try to make a magic-square candle with food coloring from deseased golems, the food coloring will just sink to the bottom of the glass, and when the inextinguishable flame eventually reaches the bottom all the food coloring will catch fire and become one giant tall flame that you cannot possibly blow out and the glass will start to crack and then you’ll throw your seven-colored-elixir tea on it in a panic and then the extremely hot food coloring will boil and sizzle horribly and then the glass will shatter. Please take my word on this. Ammut: What did you do Yogummunt? Yogummunt: a Mistake.

-

Raikan: I’m a reverse necromancer. Ashborn: Isn’t that just killing people? Raikan: Ah, technically.

-

Ashborn, after dealing with Baran and Raikan and taking a vacay for the emotional baggage that day: Hey. Queresha: pissed off You… complete …ASS, Ashborn! You show up here after WEEKS, and you say “hey”?!

-

Yogummunt: Today at 7 am, Antares poured a Monster energy drink in their coffee, said "I'm going to die" and drank the whole thing. Queresha: I watched Antares brew their coffee with Monster instead of water. Three cups in two hours. I think they ascended into the astral realm. Raikan: The survivability of the dragon race never fails to amaze me.

-

Rulers: Now, Ashborn, all of us are doing this because we care about life, okay? Absolute Being, ready to create a new monarch: Except for me. I just wanted to see the look on your face.

-

Queresha: What did you order this morning? Ashborn: What do you mean? Queresha: I heard you answer the door, and I sensed food.

-

Ashborn knowing he can't die: I think we should have glow stick juice injected in our bones when we're born, so if we break our bones, we get a fun little surprise. Raikan: What's the surprise? Antares: Blood poisoning.

-

[eliteknightiron]

I like your stimbords!

Can you do one for Ashborn? Or the Rulers?

ヾ(≧▽≦*)o

✦ / ✦ / ✦

✦ / 𓆩⟡𓆪 / ✦

✦ / ✦ / ✦

[sayonara363]

I feel like Ashborn would be that person who has the most atrocious interactions with everybody.

“Back in my days…” Ashborn says while petting his horse. “Back in your days you were alive” Jinwoo interrupts while giving Kaisel a piece of meat.

“Ah, kids those days…” Ashborn looks at a young warriors of skies. “Get out” one of the rulers says while pointing his spear at him hesitantly. Surely his brother wouldn’t try to kill off the new generation right? He made a vow that he wasn’t going to attack us!

“How does that feel being betrayed by three monarchs at the same time?” Ashborn asks Antares. “How does that feel to be betrayed by all SIX rulers?” Dragon emperor spits out a bit of fire . (reference to Kaisel dossier)

“I am so sigma” Architect slowly turned his head to face Ashborn while being absolutely stunned.

“Would you like to see a magic trick?” Ashborn’s asks Bellion. “Sure” he answers. The next second Ashborn brought back a knight. “Voila” He says while pointing at Igris who just got brought back from the dead after seeing his family die in front of him:😭

“If I heat your body with a dragons fire would you melt?” Tarnak grabbed a goblin nearby and threw it at Ashborn.

“Do all monarch have this?” Jinwoo pointed out a fire on Ashborn’s head. “Do I have to have it too?” “Yes” Ashborn says.

“Don’t you dare touch me with those claws” E-rank Jinwoo says while backing away from Ashborn.

“Hmmm, and I need to give a name to three dragons huh? Rock paper scissors. Done” the three dragons look at Ashborn who looks proud o f the names he head chosen

[shamefulzombie]

randos

[fallloverfic]

This is the price...

We pay to live...

I've got all the power...

Yeah, I've got all the power...

No, I'm not a player...

I'm a puppeteer...

No, I don't play, I puppeteer, yeah.

(Lyrics from Puppeteer in EPIC: The Circe Saga by Jorge Rivera-Herrans)

[monoleander]

Things to consider before you do the deed with Ashborn (and why you should sleep with him).

Well, first things first, if you're going to do it with Ashborn, you have to find him attractive. If you're actually reading this, you either like his physical appearance or his personality or both, like I do. Either way, congrats, all your life choices led to you wanting to screw a shadow.

Moving on, is it actually possible to do it with him? According to my very non-biased opinion: yes, absolutely. You've probably thought about this topic before too and there are a few thoughts I had that I want to talk about.

Things to consider:

1. His height:

This is something I'm still debating over in my mind. From reading the light novel and manhwa, we can conclude that Ashborn, as well as the other Monarchs and Rulers, are TALL but we don't know exactly how tall.

In the novel, Rakan (the Beast Monarch) was described to be well over 2 meters (that means over 6'6 feet). I'm assuming that applies to the other Monarchs and Rulers as well. Ashborn definitely reaches 7 ft or close to that.

HOWEVER, in the manhwa, Bellion was shown to be taller than that and I mean MUCH TALLER. He looks at least 10 ft tall (or over?) and just a reminder that Jin-Woo isn't short either (6'3 ft). I don't know about you guys but my 5 ft ass is already struggling to just make eye contact at 7 ft.

There was also the panel where Jin-Woo and Ashborn overlap from Bellion's point of view. Just another scene casually reminding us that Ashborn is much bigger than the average human. You know, the usual with Monarchs and Rulers.

Now, I don't know if it's only Bellion that's freakishly tall or it's just the artists giving some effects. If you don't mind the size difference though, then good for you.

2. The armour:

Not much of a problem with this one since he can definitely take it off. I'm 99% sure his body isn't just a few hunks of metal and shadows and that he actually has a body below all that armour (If his body is the armour, he'd still be hot). It wasn't directly shown in the manhwa but in the light novel, it was mentioned that he took off his helmet in front of Jin-Woo.

The problem is, imagine you were trying to get into the mood and his stupid armour sorry Ashborn is poking you everywhere. Those edges are sharp and they will definitely cut your skin (sigh the things we do to screw Ashborn.) Another problem could be the amount of time it takes to take that thing off.

Imagine: You're in bed, your face is all flushed and your lips are swollen from kissing. Your body feels like it's on fire and you can already feel the moisture soaking through your clothes. You're eagerly anticipating his next move when you suddenly hear: *click* *clack* *thud* *click*

You look over and he's taking his armour off. He glances up at you, raises his hand and says 'Just a moment' before he starts pulling on the metal plattings covering his body again. He takes about 15-20 minutes to remove everything and you just sit there, waiting. See what I mean? I hope he can just abracadabra it away like Jin-Woo though.

His probably looks the same as the other Rulers below his armour, just that he's made of shadow. Also, what if he took off his helmet and you're just greeted by the sight of Jin-Woo's face staring back at you (bc of that 'we are one' sht). So now you're just having sex with a more archaic and boomer version of Sung Jin-Woo...

3. His body:

Finally, the million dollar question: Does he have a cock? I'd like to imagine he does. Even if he doesn't, I hope he can just manifest one using his shadows ('skidaddle skidoodle your dick is now a noodle' sry unnecessary input). The Rulers don't really have to mate to reproduce. They just kinda burst out of the World Tree's fruit like fruit flies. So, do they even have reproductive organs?

They are identified as males though so maybe they do (??) But just don't use them. Also, if he's really 10 ft tall then...oh boy. Your first night together might also end up being your last (jk).

Why you should sleep with him:

Do you even need a reason for this? Have you SEEN how he looks? His body? The abs? Those thighs? The claws? The CAPE?? He'll either treat you like a precious and fragile treasure (because you really are fragile compared to him) or you won't be able to walk for a couple of days.

Aftercare will be amazing though and I'm sure of it. He'd also be a very loyal partner unless you were doing it as a casual thing.

I won't write too much since it might get boring and since I might want to write headcannons about this separately in the future. Thank you for listening to my nonsense. Expect more Ashborn content from me (if I'm not procrastinating).