Three days had passed since the final battle with Antares.
The morning sun filtered through the tall windows of the Korean Hunters Association headquarters, casting long shadows across the polished marble floor. The spacious conference room, usually filled with urgent tactical discussions and strategic planning, now carried a quieter, more somber atmosphere.
Ethan Carter stood near the center of the room, his posture relaxed yet dignified. Flanking him on either side were his wives—Jean Grey, her vibrant red hair cascading over her shoulders, and Anna Marie, her white-streaked brown hair framing her gentle features. Just behind them stood Elizabeth, the former vessel of Querehsha, her silver hair catching the light as she shifted nervously, still adjusting to her newfound freedom.
Across from them stood four of South Korea's most prominent figures in the world of Hunters: Chief Woo Jin-Chul, his stern expression softened with genuine warmth; Guild Master Choi Jong-In of the Hunters Guild, his usually confident demeanor tinged with something resembling respect; Cha Hae-In, the beautiful S-Rank hunter whose normally stoic face betrayed a hint of emotion; and finally, Chairman Go Gun-Hee, the elderly leader of the Association, his weathered features creased with a knowing smile.
The silence stretched for a moment before Chairman Go Gun-Hee stepped forward, his cane tapping lightly against the floor.
"So," the Chairman said, his voice carrying the weight of experience and wisdom, "this is truly farewell, then?"
Ethan nodded, a slight smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "For now, yes. But not forever. I have a feeling we'll cross paths again."
The Jin-Chul stepped forward next, extending his hand. His grip was firm and respectful.
"What you've done for the Chairman, I'd like to express my gratitude. Even if it was a contract, I'm still thankful for what you've done for him."
"Thanks," Ethan replied while shaking his hand warmly.
Guild Master Choi Jong-In approached next, his crimson eyes—trademark of his fire-based abilities—studying Ethan with undisguised curiosity. "I've encountered many powerful individuals in my lifetime, but you, Ethan Carter... you're something entirely different." He extended his hand. "You're something else entirely. Something beyond classification."
Ethan shook Jong-In's hand, chuckling softly. "I'll take that as a compliment."
"It is," Jong-In confirmed. "If you ever need anything—anything—from this world, you have my word. Just remember have the Hunters Guild as allies."
"I'll remember that," Ethan replied with a nod.
Then Cha Hae-In stepped forward. For a moment, she simply looked at Jean and Anna, her usual reserved expression cracking into something warmer, more personal. Without warning, she moved past Ethan and pulled both women into an embrace.
"Take care of yourselves," Cha Hae-In said softly, her voice barely above a whisper. "All of you."
Jean returned the embrace with a gentle squeeze. "You too, Hae-In. Keep that blade sharp."
Anna smiled, her Southern accent warm and affectionate. "And don't let these boys push you around, sugar. You're stronger than most of them combined."
Cha Hae-In pulled back, a rare smile gracing her features. "I won't forget."
She turned then to Elizabeth, who stood uncertainly at the edge of their group. The silver-haired woman seemed smaller somehow, despite her imposing presence. Cha Hae-In simply nodded at her.
Ethan didn't tell them Elizabeth's story. Instead, he simply said she was from another galaxy—that she meant them no harm and would be following them as they traveled to other universes.
After all, they accepted it without much resistance. In this reality where beings from other universes already existed, someone from another galaxy was hardly unbelievable.
Chairman Go Gun-Hee stepped forward last, his eyes twinkling with something between amusement and approval. "I've lived a long life, met many remarkable people. But you four..." He chuckled, shaking his head. "You've reminded this old man that the universe is far larger and stranger than we could ever imagine."
Ethan inclined his head respectfully. "And you've shown us that even in a world filled with monsters, humanity's greatest strength isn't power—it's unity."
The Chairman's smile widened. "Flattery, Mr. Carter?"
"Honesty, Mr. Chairman," Ethan replied warmly.
Go Gun-Hee extended his hand, and Ethan clasped it firmly. "Safe travels, Ethan Carter. And when you return—because I do believe you will—you'll always have allies here."
"I'm counting on it," Ethan said sincerely.
Then he silently began to recall what happened previously.
.
.
.
Flashback: Three Days Prior
Ethan had been silent as Jean and Anna are discussing with Elizabeth, weighing his options. His Chronokinesis—his absolute control over time—could theoretically reverse the flow, reach back through the decades and undo the damage. He could bring her family back, restore what was lost.
But the cost...
'Temporal paradox,' Ethan had thought grimly. 'If I reach back that far, alter so many fixed points in time... this entire timeline could collapse. Causality would fracture. Millions—billions—could be erased from existence.'
He couldn't risk it. Not for one person, no matter how deserving.
"I can't bring them back," Ethan had said finally, his voice heavy with regret. "If I tried, I'd risk destroying this entire universe. I'm sorry, Elizabeth. But I can't—I won't—make that choice."
Elizabeth had closed her eyes, tears streaming down her cheeks, but she had nodded slowly. "I... I understand."
"But," Ethan continued, his tone softening, "that doesn't mean your life has to end here. You're free now. You can choose what comes next."
"I don't know," Elizabeth had admitted, her voice small. "I don't know what I want. I don't even know who I am anymore."
Jean had squeezed her shoulder gently. "Then figure it out. Take your time. There's no rush."
Anna had smiled warmly. "And you don't have to do it alone, sugar."
It was then that Jean had glanced at Ethan with a thoughtful expression crossing her features. "You know... we're traveling across different universes. Different realities. Elizabeth could come with us."
Ethan had raised an eyebrow. "Jean—"
"Think about it," Jean had interrupted gently. "She needs time to heal, to rediscover herself. What better way than to see worlds beyond imagination? Places where the past doesn't haunt her. Where she can become someone new."
Elizabeth had looked up, confusion flickering across her face. "Different... universes? I don't understand."
Anna had grinned. "Oh honey, you're in for a wild ride."
Ethan had sighed, but he couldn't help the small smile that tugged at his lips. "It's... complicated. But Jean's right. If you want to come with us, you're welcome to."
"But," Jean had added quickly, "we need to talk. Girl talk. Private girl talk."
Ethan had blinked. "What?"
Anna had stood, pulling Elizabeth to her feet. "You heard her, sugar. Boys aren't allowed."
Jean had smirked, placing a hand on Ethan's chest and gently pushing him toward the door. "Out. We'll call you when we're done."
"Are you serious right now?" Ethan had asked, incredulous.
"Very," Jean had said sweetly, her telekinesis giving him an extra nudge toward the exit.
Ethan had raised his hands in mock surrender. "Alright, alright. I know when I'm not wanted." He had paused at the doorway, glancing back with a fond smile. "Don't take too long. We've got a universe to leave."
The door had closed behind him with a soft click.
Ethan had stood in the hallway for a moment, chuckling to himself. 'Girl talk. Of course.'
Pulling out his phone, he had scrolled through his contacts, landing on one name in particular: Sung Il-Hwan.
'Might as well check in,' Ethan had thought, pressing the call button.
The line had rung twice before a familiar voice answered. "Ethan."
"Mr. Il-Hwan," Ethan had greeted warmly. "I've got some news. The Monarchs are finished. All of them. Antares was the last."
There had been a pause on the other end, followed by a quiet exhale.
"I see," Il-Hwan had said simply. "...Thank you, kid."
Ethan had frowned slightly. Something was different about Il-Hwan's tone. It was... lighter. Calmer.
"Are you okay?" Ethan had asked. "You sound—"
"I'm with my family."
Ethan had stopped mid-step, his eyes widening. "Wait. You're what?"
"My wife and kids." Il-Hwan's voice had been soft, almost disbelieving. "I finally came home."
For a moment, Ethan had been speechless. He had expected Il-Hwan to take more time—weeks, maybe months—before working up the courage to reunite with his family. The man had been trapped in the dungeon rift for years, and became a pawn in the game of the Rulers vs Monarchs' games. The weight of guilt and lost time was immense.
But he had done it.
A broad smile had spread across Ethan's face. "Mr.Il-Hwan... I'm proud of you."
"Don't get sentimental on me," Il-Hwan had replied, though there was warmth in his voice.
"Too late," Ethan had said with a laugh. "Enjoy your retirement, old man. Be the father and husband they've been waiting for. You've earned it."
"...I will."
"And Mr.Il-Hwan?"
"Yeah?"
"Take care of Jin-Woo. That kid's going to need you."
There had been a pause, then a quiet chuckle. "He's stronger than you think."
"I know," Ethan had said softly. "But even the strong need family."
The call had ended shortly after, leaving Ethan standing alone in the hallway, a satisfied smile on his face.
'Good for you, Mr.Il-Hwan,' he had thought.
After ending his call with Il-Hwan, Ethan stood alone in the room, the phone still warm in his hand. The conversation had left him with a profound sense of satisfaction—not just for defeating the Monarchs, but for helping reunite a family torn apart by forces beyond their control.
He pocketed the phone and walked slowly toward the large windows at the end of the corridor, gazing out at Seoul's glittering skyline. The city pulsed with life—neon signs flickering, cars streaming through streets, people going about their lives completely unaware of the apocalypse that had been averted.
'Few weeks,' Ethan thought, a slight smile tugging at his lips. 'It's only been a few weeks.'
When they'd first arrived in this universe, he'd anticipated the campaign against the Monarchs would take months—perhaps even longer. These weren't ordinary enemies; they were ancient, cosmic entities of unimaginable power, each one capable of reshaping reality itself.
The Monarch of Frost. The Monarch of Plagues. The Monarch of Transfiguration. The Monarch of Iron. The Monarch of Beasts. The Monarch of White Flames. The Monarch of The Beginning. And finally, Antares—the Monarch of Destruction himself.
Eight godlike beings, and Ethan had systematically eliminated every single one of them.
'And I collected their cores,' he mused, his hand unconsciously moving to the dimensional pocket where he stored such artifacts. The Monarch cores pulsed with residual power, each one a condensed fragment of cosmic authority.
What made the accomplishment even more remarkable was that he'd done it all while enjoying his honeymoon with Jean and Anna. They'd explored the world, experienced its culture, tasted its cuisine, and still found time to systematically dismantle an existential threat to humanity.
'Jean and Anna,' Ethan thought warmly, his smile growing. 'They made it fun. They always do.'
Jean's tactical brilliance and telepathic coordination had been invaluable. Anna's raw power and fierce determination had turned the tide in several critical battles. Together, the three of them had been unstoppable.
And now, with the Monarchs eliminated and the world saved, it was time to move on.
'Time to continue our journey,' Ethan decided, his gaze drifting upward toward the stars beyond Earth's atmosphere. 'There are infinite universes out there, infinite realities to explore. This honeymoon is far from over.'
But even as he thought about leaving, part of him felt reluctant.
'Sung Jin-Woo,' Ethan mused, his expression thoughtful. 'I barely got to interact with him. The protagonist of this world—a man who would rise from the weakest Hunter to possibly the strongest being in existence. I'd love to see his journey unfold. To witness his growth firsthand.'
Jin-Woo was still early in his development, still navigating the System's trials and challenges. Ethan knew what lay ahead for the young Hunter—the Jeju Island raid, the confrontation with the Ant King, the revelation of the Shadow Monarch's legacy.
'Especially the Jeju Island raid,' Ethan thought with genuine interest. 'The negotiations between Korea and Japan are already underway. It's going to be a pivotal moment—S-Rank Hunters from both nations working together to reclaim an island overrun by magic beasts. And Jin-Woo will be there, proving himself against the odds.'
Ethan wanted to see it. Wanted to be there when Jin-Woo demonstrated the true extent of his power.
'But not now,' he decided firmly. 'This is Jean and Anna's time. Their happiness comes first. Always.'
The honeymoon wasn't just about traveling—it was about giving his wives the experiences they deserved, the joy and wonder of exploring existence itself without the weight of constant battles and responsibilities.
He could return to this universe later. The Omni-Watch made that possible. Time flowed differently across realities; he could leave now and return mere days after his departure from this world's perspective.
'After the honeymoon,' Ethan promised himself. 'I'll come back. I'll see Jin-Woo's rise. I'll witness the Jeju Island raid. And maybe... maybe I'll lend a hand if needed.'
With that decision made, Ethan turned from the window and turned back and found Jean, Anna, and Elizabeth engaged in animated conversation while coming out of the room. The atmosphere was lighter than before, Elizabeth's expression less haunted, more curious.
Jean noticed him first, her emerald eyes brightening. "There you are. Everything okay?"
"More than okay," Ethan replied, settling into a chair across from them. "I was just thinking... it's time we moved on to the next universe."
Anna perked up immediately, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Already? I mean, not that I'm complaining—I'm always ready for adventure. But you sure, sugah?"
"I'm sure," Ethan confirmed. "We've accomplished what we came here to do. The Monarchs are gone, the world is safe, and we've had our fun. But there are infinite realities out there waiting for us."
Jean had a thoughtful expression crossing her features. "You're right. And honestly? I'm curious to see where the Omni-Watch takes us next."
Elizabeth shifted nervously. "You're... you're really going to other universes? I still can't quite wrap my head around that concept."
Anna grinned while nudging her gently. "Trust me, sugar, you'll get used to it. Wait until you see some of the places we've been."
Elizabeth hesitated, then spoke quietly. "I... I appreciate you letting me come with you. But..." She looked down at her hands. "You're on your honeymoon. I don't want to intrude."
Jean immediately reached over, taking Elizabeth's hand. "You're not intruding."
"Not even a little bit," Anna added firmly. "We invited you, remember? You're part of this now."
"But—" Elizabeth began.
"No buts," Jean interrupted gently but firmly. "Elizabeth, you've been through hell. You deserve happiness, peace, and the chance to discover who you really are. If traveling with us helps you find that, then we want you here."
Anna nodded enthusiastically. "Besides, more company means more fun. And you've already proven you're strong, capable, and brave. We'd be lucky to have you with us."
Elizabeth's eyes glistened with unshed tears, but she managed a genuine smile. "Thank you. Both of you. I... I don't know what I'd do without you."
Ethan watched the exchange with quiet satisfaction. 'She's healing,' he thought. 'Slowly, but surely. Good.'
Anna suddenly sat up straighter, her eyes lighting up with an idea. "Oh! I just thought of something. We should visit the DC universe!"
Ethan raised an eyebrow. "The DC universe? Any particular reason?"
"Well," Anna said, ticking off points on her fingers, "it's been a while since we were there. I want to check on Aeon Biotech's branch—you know, the company we established there. Lena's running it as CEO, and I'm curious to see how things are going."
Jean's interest was piqued. "Lena Luthor? The one you've mentioned before?"
"The very same," Anna confirmed. "Brilliant and fierce businesswoman, and genuinely good person despite her last name. She's been managing our biotech research and development. I'd like to see what progress she's made."
Ethan nodded slowly, considering. "That's actually not a bad idea. The DC universe has a lot going on—heroes, villains, cosmic threats. It would be interesting to see where things stand now."
"And," Anna added with a grin, "Jean hasn't been there yet. It'd be a whole new experience for her."
Jean's lips curved into an intrigued smile. "A comic universe full of superheroes and alien threats? I'm definitely interested."
Elizabeth looked between them, still processing. "So... there are multiple versions of Earth? With different people and histories?"
"Exactly," Ethan confirmed. "Some are similar to others, some are wildly different. The DC universe has its own unique history, its own heroes and villains. Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman—they're all real there."
Elizabeth's eyes widened. "That's... incredible."
"It is," Jean agreed. "And you're going to experience it all firsthand."
Ethan stood, decision made. "Alright then. DC universe it is. We'll take a few days to prepare, say our proper goodbyes here, and then we move on."
Anna jumped up excitedly. "I can't wait! It's been too long since I've seen Metropolis and Gotham."
Jean smiled. "This should be interesting."
Elizabeth stood as well, uncertainty replaced by cautious anticipation. "I'll try not to slow you down."
"You won't," Ethan assured her. "You're stronger than you think, Elizabeth. You just need time to remember that."
.
.
.
**Present**
The moment lingered—warm, bittersweet, and filled with unspoken understanding.
But eventually, all farewells must end.
Ethan glanced at Jean and Anna, then at Elizabeth. "Ready?"
Jean nodded, her emerald eyes gleaming with anticipation. "Always."
Anna grinned. "Let's see what the multiverse has in store for us this time."
Elizabeth hesitated, then smiled faintly. "I... I think I'm ready."
Ethan turned back to the assembled Hunters one last time, inclining his head respectfully. "Until we meet again."
Chairman Go Gun-Hee raised a hand in farewell. "Until then, Ethan Carter. May the winds guide you safely."
With that, Ethan led his companions toward the exit. They stepped out onto the rooftop of the Association headquarters, the cool breeze carrying the scent of the city below.
Ethan's gaze shifted upward, scanning the distant rooftops.
There.
On a building several blocks away, barely visible against the skyline, stood a solitary figure.
Sung Il-Hwan.
Even from this distance, Ethan could see the faint smile on the older man's face. Their eyes met across the expanse, and for a moment, time seemed to still.
Il-Hwan gave a single, respectful nod.
Ethan returned it, his own smile widening.
'Take care, old friend,' Ethan thought. 'You've earned your peace.'
Then Ethan reached into his coat, pulling out the Omni-Watch—a silver pocket watch that gleamed faintly in the sunlight. The intricate engravings along its surface pulsed with a soft, otherworldly glow, the cosmic energy within humming gently.
He flipped it open. The minute hand rested at III—the Roman numeral three.
Ethan's thought brushed against the delicate mechanism, and the minute hand began to move.
From III to II.
A blinding light erupted around them, engulfing Ethan, Jean, Anna, and Elizabeth in a radiant cascade of energy. The air shimmered, reality itself bending and folding as the multiverse responded to the Omni-Watch's call.
And then, they were gone.
On the distant rooftop, Sung Il-Hwan watched the light fade, his expression serene.
"Have a good life, kid," he murmured quietly.
Then, like a shadow dissolving in the wind, he vanished.
.
.
.
**DC universe**
The light receded as quickly as it had come.
When Ethan's vision cleared, the first thing he noticed was the smell.
Smoke. Ash and decay.
He blinked, his senses immediately sharpening as he took in their surroundings.
They stood atop a crumbling skyscraper, its steel frame twisted and warped as if subjected to unimaginable heat. The city sprawled out before them—or what was left of it. Buildings lay in ruins, their skeletal remains jutting toward a gray, overcast sky. The streets below were choked with debris, abandoned vehicles, and the eerie silence of a world that had seen its end.
Jean stepped forward with her eyes widening as she surveyed the devastation. "Well," she said dryly, "this is... cheerful."
Anna crossed her arms, her expression grim. "Sugah, your watch has a real talent for dropping us into doomsday scenarios."
Elizabeth moved to the edge of the rooftop, her silver hair whipping in the wind as she stared down at the ruined cityscape. "What... what happened here?"
Ethan didn't answer immediately. His gaze was fixed on the Omni-Watch, still clutched in his hand. The faint glow confirmed what he already suspected.
"We're in the right universe," he said quietly, his tone serious.
Jean turned to him, frowning. "The right universe? Ethan, this place looks like it went through World War Three."
Ethan closed the watch with a soft click, slipping it back into his coat. For a second, his eyes glowed green before turning back to normal.
His expression darkened immediately. "That's because someone messed with the timeline."
Anna's eyes narrowed. "Don't tell me—"
"Barry Allen," Ethan said flatly, cutting her off.
Jean groaned while pinching the bridge of her nose. "Of course it's Barry. Why is it always Barry?"
Thanks to reading DC comic books after learning that Ethan and Anna had gone there and established a branch, Jean wanted to understand what was happening in that world. She read most of the comics, and because of that, she already had a fair idea of what was going on in this universe.
Anna sighed. "That boy and his speed force nonsense... when will he learn?"
Elizabeth looked between them, confusion etched on her face. "Who's Barry?"
"A speedster," Ethan explained, his jaw tightening. "Someone with the ability to move faster than light, to manipulate time and space through sheer velocity. He means well, but..." He gestured to the ruined city around them. "He has a bad habit of breaking reality when he tries to fix things."
Jean's telepathic senses flared outward, scanning the desolate landscape. "I'm not picking up many life signs. This world is... dying."
Ethan closed his eyes, his own telepathic abilities expanding across the city, the continent, the planet. His Genesis Awareness pierced through the veil of reality, reading the threads of fate and time that connected all things.
And what he saw made his expression harden.
"This timeline's been fractured," Ethan said grimly. "Barry altered something—something small but important. The ripple effects tore through history, reshaping events, erasing people, changing outcomes."
Anna's fists clenched. "Can we fix it?"
"We can try," Ethan said. "But first, I need to find Barry. He's the key to understanding what went wrong. But I already had an idea."
He extended his telepathic reach further, searching for the familiar signature of the Scarlet Speedster's mind.
There.
"Gotham," Ethan said, opening his eyes. "He's in Gotham. Wayne Manor, specifically."
Jean raised an eyebrow. "Wayne Manor? As in Batman's Wayne Manor?"
"The very same," Ethan confirmed. He raised his hand, and the air before them shimmered, a crimson portal tearing open in the fabric of space. Through it, they could see the interior of a massive, gothic mansion—dust-covered furniture, cracked walls, and an atmosphere that felt more like a haunted house than a home.
"Charming," Anna muttered.
Ethan stepped toward the portal, his expression grim. "Let's go. And when we find Barry..." His eyes glowed faintly with temporal energy. "I'm going to make damn sure he never messes with time again."
Jean smirked. "Now that I'd like to see."
Anna cracked her knuckles. "Count me in, sugah."
Elizabeth hesitated, then nodded. "I... I'll follow your lead."
One by one, they stepped through the portal, leaving the ruined cityscape behind.
The portal closed with a soft hum, sealing the devastated world in silence once more.
And somewhere in the depths of Wayne Manor, Barry Allen—the Fastest Man Alive—had no idea what was about to hit him.
....
Author's Note:
Hi guys, how was the chapter? Please do review this fic.
And before returning to the Marvel Universe, can you suggest two more worlds for their honeymoon trip?