Chapter 358 - THE LAST PARAGON IN THE APOCALYPSE 1

THE LAST PARAGON IN THE APOCALYPSEC41: Royal Gold Reserve Bank

After leaving the tattoo shop, Klaus headed toward the Royal Gold Reserve Bank, now disguised in a dark hat and sunglasses. His earlier run-in with the paparazzi had been exhausting. It was the first time in his life he had been noticed, and it rattled him more than he expected.

He had tried to prepare for this moment since his awakening, but it still came too suddenly. Now that his face was out there, he knew he had to brace himself for whatever might come next. As he walked through the busy streets, weaving between shops and crowds, he kept a low profile, moving quietly toward the bank. According to Uncle Zizzy, it would take about an hour to reach his destination.

Ross City was massive, it was once a state but now fully under the control of the Ross Great Family. Millions of people called it home, and it spanned thousands of miles. Klaus didn't know exactly how large the city was, but he knew the bank was located on the eastern side.

The Royal Gold Reserve Bank is a massive financial institution that gained prominence when the new union leaders implemented a rule to replace all old currencies with gold coins. Their presence made the transition smooth and efficient.

Now, with blockchain technology as the backbone of global transactions, the Royal Gold Reserve Bank stands as a titan of finance in this new era. They have branches in every city across the world, and their immense influence attracts a vast number of customers. Almost everyone who wants reliable banking services turns to them.

Klaus had learned from Madam Fei that there were other banks where he could request housing assistance, and they would only require a quarter of what the Royal Gold Reserve Bank demanded. However, those banks lacked the backing and prestige of the Royal Gold Reserve, meaning their services were much more limited.

Madam Fei's recommendation of the Royal Gold Reserve Bank encouraged Klaus to aim for the best.

After 45 minutes of weaving through the busy streets and keeping a low profile, Klaus finally arrived in a different part of the city. Ross City was truly a marvel. The buildings seemed to stretch endlessly into the sky, constructed with advanced machines, elegant designs, and durable glass. The towers gleamed in the sunlight, a testament to the wealth and power concentrated in this part of the city.

The ground beneath Klaus's feet was lined with smooth tiles, and the terrain had been meticulously designed so that walking, driving, and even flying could be done with ease. It was a seamless blend of functionality and luxury.

In the distance, Klaus spotted a massive building adorned with a large golden coin insignia. The building towered above everything else, with countless floors. Even from afar, Klaus could see the bustling parking area filled with sleek cars and a few private jets parked to one side. The sight of those jets made his heart race.

"Suddenly, I feel out of place," Klaus muttered to himself with a smirk. "Who am I kidding? I've always been out of place." He laughed quietly at his own situation but didn't stop moving forward.

His eyes locked onto one of the smaller, yet elegant jets among the fleet. "One day, I'll be packing my jet here too," he said with quiet determination, already imagining himself arriving in style.

Just as he approached the bank, about 200 meters from the entrance, a voice rang out behind him. "Stop right there!"

Klaus halted in his tracks and slowly turned around, wondering who was calling for him now.

Turning around, Klaus saw a young man in a slick suit, casually walking with two beautiful women on either side of him. They moved with confidence, and behind them followed a self-driving Velox T-100, a sleek vehicle that Klaus would later learn was made from nano-technology capable of repairing itself and even resisting bullets and other projectiles—though not all.

'A Rich brat,' Klaus thought to himself, instantly assuming the worst. He figured this guy was up to no good, so he mentally prepared for a verbal sparring match. However, when the young man approached, his expression was far from hostile. Instead, he smiled warmly.

"I'm Nathan Alcadia," the man said, his tone friendly. "May I know this brother's name?"

Klaus immediately recognized that Daniel was older than him and radiated the aura of a Master stage expert. It surprised him, though, that Daniel's demeanor was far more polite than he had expected.

"I'm Klaus," he replied, keeping his expression neutral.

"I noticed Brother Klaus is headed into the bank, so I won't take much of your time," Daniel said, still smiling. "Would you mind giving me a minute of your time?"

"Feel free," Klaus responded, relaxing a bit and giving Daniel the go-ahead to continue.

"Good," Daniel smiled, visibly pleased. "Actually, I noticed that Brother Klaus is a warrior. From your aura, I can tell you're stronger than most Ascended. The reason I stopped you is to see if you'd be willing to join a temporary team I'm putting together. We're planning to enter the Jade Mountain Forbidden Zone for a special task."

Daniel paused for a moment, letting the gravity of his words sink in before continuing. "Although you might not have time to think about it right now, I'd like to let you know that just by joining the team, you'll immediately earn 200 million gold coins. And after the quest is completed, you'll receive another 300 million."

Klaus raised an eyebrow at the numbers. Five hundred million gold coins was an astronomical sum, more than enough to secure a comfortable future for both him and his mother. But there was a catch—there always was. So, without hesitation, Klaus asked the most important question, "Can I know what Tier the Jade Mountain Forbidden Zone falls in?"

"It's a Tier 3 Forbidden Zone, but the strongest monster there is a Tier 6 Terror," Daniel explained. "I'm telling you this to make sure you're aware of the danger. I wouldn't want to bring you in knowing you're several ranks lower than a Tier 6 monster. But don't worry, the strongest member of the team is a Grandmaster who has already started forming their Star Core."

Klaus took in the information, considering the risks and rewards. "Good to know. And when is this task?"

"A week after the Felin Youth Ball," Daniel replied, "so about a month from today."

Klaus nodded, already calculating how much time he had to prepare if he decided to join. "I'm busy at the moment and can't make a decision right now, but if you leave me your card, I'll reach out once I've made up my mind."

Daniel's smile widened in satisfaction. He beckoned to one of the ladies beside him, who quickly handed Klaus a sleek card. "I look forward to hearing from you," Daniel said with a slight bow.

"I'll contact you once I decide," Klaus replied, turning to leave. He approached the gate, which scanned his worker's permit badge before opening it automatically. He stepped through, entering the grand entrance of the Royal Gold Reserve Bank.

As he walked away, one of the women by Daniel's side leaned in and asked quietly, "Young master, why did you request his help and show him such respect?"

"Honestly, I don't know," Daniel admitted, watching Klaus disappear into the distance. "Big sister told me to invite him. She's too prideful to come herself, so she sent me instead."

One of the women raised an eyebrow. "Why would she care about him?"

Daniel shrugged. "Who knows? Anyway, let's head back. He probably won't reach out. A weak warrior like him would only be a burden." With that, the car doors opened automatically, and they got in. The sleek vehicle drove off, fading into the bustling city.

Meanwhile, Klaus, now standing before the grand entrance of the Royal Gold Reserve Bank, held the card Daniel had given him. He chuckled to himself. "If I didn't know better, I'd say the heavens are favoring me," he mused, tucking the card away.

As he approached the door, it slid open before he could touch it. Stepping inside, Klaus was momentarily taken aback by the luxurious interior. The walls gleamed with polished stone, and the air smelled faintly of fresh lavender. Before he could take it all in, a petite woman in a fitted black suit approached him with a polite smile.

"Young warrior," she greeted him, her voice warm yet professional, "welcome to the Royal Gold Reserve Bank. How may we assist you today?"

"Hi, I am looking to open an account," Klaus said, addressing the petite woman in the black suit.

"This way, please," she responded with a polite nod. She led him to a door and opened it, gesturing for him to enter. "Young warrior, you'll be attended to through there."

"Thank you," Klaus replied and walked through the door.

On the other side, he found himself in front of a glass table where a young blonde lady was seated, scrolling through a glass phone.

"Hi, I was directed here," Klaus said, making his presence known. "I'm Klaus and I would like to open a bank account."

The lady who was lost in her Phone was jolted awake when Klaus spoke. With an embarrassed expression, she spoke. "Sorry about that. Welcome to the Royal Gold Reserve Bank. How may I assist you today?"

"I would like to open a bank account," Klaus said, taking a seat in one of the comfortable chairs.

The lady quickly composed herself and began opening a form on her computer. "May I have your name, please?"

"Klaus Hanson," Klaus replied.

After typing a few details into the computer, the young lady looked up and said, "Kindly place your right palm on this screen, after placing your left palm." Klaus followed her instructions.

"I will need you to remove your cap and glasses so I can scan your face," she added.

Klaus cursed inwardly, but he gently removed his cap and sunglasses. As his disguise came off, the lady's eyes widened in shock, and her jaw nearly dropped.

"Please, can we continue with the account creation?" Klaus smiled at her reaction. His mother had advised him to take it easy with the ladies now that he had become more charming, but such reactions were beyond his control.

"I know this isn't related to the account creation, but can I—"

"Yes, I'll take a selfie with you, but let's finish the account setup first," Klaus interrupted before she could finish her request. Klaus could only smile looking at such a foreign reaction.

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THE LAST PARAGON IN THE APOCALYPSEC42: A Platinum Customer

The lady's eyes lit up with excitement. Her demeanor shifted from flustered to efficient, and she quickly proceeded with the paperwork. She asked a few more questions and had Klaus sign several e-documents. Once the process was complete, she turned to him and asked, "How much would Brother Klaus like to deposit into the account?"

Klaus reached into his space ring and pulled out a credit card. "I'd like to withdraw all the money on this card into my account," he said, handing the card to the lady.

The lady took the card and began entering details into her computer. After a few seconds, a look of confusion crossed her face. "Platinum... Cus...tomer," she stammered, glancing up at Klaus with astonishment.

Before she could say more, the door to the room opened, and a man in his early 40s walked in. "Manager, sir, I..." the lady began, but the man held up a hand to stop her.

With a friendly smile, he addressed Klaus. "Distinguished customer, I'll be taking over from here."

Klaus raised an eyebrow, puzzled. "Why? This lady seems to be doing a good job. Is everything alright?"

The manager smiled reassuringly. "Everything is fine. You've been upgraded to a platinum customer, which means she's no longer qualified to continue the process. I'll handle it from here."

Klaus sighed at the sudden shift in treatment. Although the lady who had been helping him hadn't made the best first impression, he still found her endearing in her own way.

"Distinguished customer, we can continue the process in my office," the manager said, his tone filled with respect.

"You can just call me Klaus," Klaus replied, feeling a bit uncomfortable with the grand title.

"Mr. Klaus, this way," the manager gestured, leading him to a private elevator. Klaus smiled slightly, following along. Before he could even fully process what was happening, they arrived at the highest floor.

The office they stepped into was nothing short of luxurious. Every item seemed to glisten with diamond sparkles—chairs, tables, and even the cups on the desk were made of diamonds. It was a sight that made Klaus almost drool, the extravagance far beyond anything he'd seen before.

"Please, can you tell me what's going on?" Klaus asked, still trying to make sense of the situation.

The manager smiled warmly. "The card you presented is a Platinum recommendation card. As such, your account has now been credited with 10 billion gold coins."

Klaus stared at him, stunned. Ten billion gold coins? How could that be possible? He had only presented a credit card with 100 million on it, yet his account had been credited with an astronomical sum. "How is this possible?" Klaus asked, his voice full of disbelief.

The manager leaned forward slightly, speaking in a calm tone. "Mr. Klaus, you seem to be new to this, so allow me to explain. In our banking system, there are different ranks. It starts with Copper, followed by Bronze, Silver, Gold, Diamond, and finally Platinum. Platinum is the highest tier in terms of ranking."

He paused briefly, watching Klaus absorb the information before continuing. "Each rank offers different benefits and privileges. As you might guess, not just anyone can hold a Platinum card. Typically, to qualify for one, you must wield significant influence and possess considerable wealth. However, Mr. Klaus, the card you presented is from an—"

The manager suddenly stopped mid-sentence, his eyes flickering with hesitation. He seemed to realize he was on the verge of revealing something sensitive. After a moment, he cleared his throat and gave a polite smile. "Rest assured, the card carries unique privileges," he said, carefully avoiding any further details.

Klaus sat back, still trying to process everything. What kind of card had he gotten his hands on? And more importantly, who is Ohema? Because he knew for a fact that the card came from her, if what the manager said is true, which it is, then who is Ohema, what is her true identity?

"So, I now have ten billion in my account?" Klaus asked, still trying to wrap his mind around the staggering figure.

The manager smiled again and nodded. "Yes, Mr. Klaus. You now have ten billion gold coins at your disposal. Congratulations."

Klaus blinked, feeling a strange mix of disbelief and excitement. Ten billion gold coins. It was enough to change his life—and his mother's—forever. This is a great thing for him, but somehow, his mind isn't at rest like someone who now has ten billion in their account.

"Manager, can I know who this card is from? Just a little information is all I ask," Klaus said, leaning forward slightly, his curiosity getting the better of him.

The manager hesitated, his smile fading just a little. He glanced around as if ensuring no one else could overhear before lowering his voice. "I'm afraid I can't reveal too much, Mr. Klaus. But what I can tell you is that the card comes from a very... influential individual.

Someone with considerable power and resources."

Klaus's eyes narrowed. "But who? A name will suffice"

The manager offered a polite but firm smile. "I'm sorry, Mr. Klaus, but that's all I can disclose. The benefactor clearly wishes to remain anonymous."

Klaus nodded, still full of questions but knowing he wouldn't get any more answers today. Whoever Ohema really is, he will soon find out, after all, he will have to pay her back sooner rather than later.

"I can see Mr. Klaus has a lot to think about," the manager said with a knowing smile. "But please understand, as a Platinum customer, your status is now several times higher than when you first walked through these doors."

Klaus smiled to himself. He had walked in as a nobody and was now leaving as a billionaire. Never in his wildest dreams had he imagined something like this. Accepting the reality, he said, "We can proceed, Mr. Manager."

"The next step is simply linking your card to your phone for easier transactions," the manager explained. "The process has already been completed."

Klaus's smile faltered, and he frowned slightly. He didn't have a phone—mainly because he didn't have an ID to purchase one.

"Uh, Mr. Manager," Klaus began, a little embarrassed. "I don't actually have an ID yet, and as far as I know, you need one to buy a phone. So... I don't have a phone."

The manager raised an eyebrow in surprise but quickly composed himself. "Ah, I see. No worries, Mr. Klaus," he said smoothly. "Since you're now a Platinum customer, we can assist you in acquiring both an ID and a phone right here. Consider it a privilege of your new status."

Klaus felt a wave of relief wash over him, mixed with amazement at how smoothly everything seemed to fall into place. It was as if his new Platinum account holder status had opened doors he didn't even know existed. His mind began to clear, and he realized that his status had elevated him to heights even he had yet to fully understand.

After only a few more minutes of waiting, someone arrived with a sleek glass phone and a shiny new ID card for the manager to hand over. Klaus blinked in surprise at the speed and efficiency of the process. This sudden shift felt almost surreal in a world where he'd always struggled.

"Mr. Klaus, this is your phone and ID. You can access your account anywhere using this phone, and with this ID, you can recommend anyone," the manager said, handing Klaus the sleek device and identification.

The moment Klaus touched the phone, a wave of joy surged through him. Finally, he had a phone of his own. He quickly unlocked it, his fingers moving with excitement, and was thrilled to find his bank account already linked. When he saw the long string of zeros in his balance, he had to hold himself back from shouting in celebration.

"Thank you, Mr. Manager," Klaus said, smiling widely.

"Mr. Manager, I'd like to know the housing system according to the bank's standards," Klaus asked without hesitation. His main objective was clear—he needed to buy a house.

The manager nodded, understanding the importance of the request. "Of course, Mr. Klaus. As a Platinum account holder, you have access to exclusive housing options. The bank works closely with the city's top real estate developers, offering properties ranging from luxury apartments to private estates.

You can choose from various high-end locations, and with your current status, purchasing or renting will be a seamless process. "

"Can I know the prices if I want to buy?" Klaus asked.

The manager smiled and tapped a few buttons on his desk. A holographic projection appeared in front of them, displaying various houses and estates across the city. "Of course, Mr. Klaus," he said. "Here are a few options."

The projection showcased different types of properties, from luxury apartments in the heart of the city to sprawling estates on the outskirts. the locations shown in the projection are all in high-level places in Ross City. Just looking at it made Klaus wanna buy everything his money can afford.

"For a high-end luxury apartment in the western district," the manager explained, "you're looking between 50 to 500 million gold coins. For a private estate with more space and privacy, prices can range from 1 billion to 5 billion, depending on the size and location."

Klaus nodded and continued browsing through the hundreds of available houses, each unique in its own way. He couldn't help but feel a little overwhelmed as he scrolled past luxurious homes that once seemed beyond his reach. After about 20 minutes, he reached the final listing: a private estate with a stunning waterfall. It caught his eye immediately.

He had marked down a few houses to revisit later, carefully considering his options. But just as he was about to make his choice, the manager spoke up.

"Mr. Klaus, congratulations on buying a house."

Klaus blinked in confusion. "What?"

The manager smiled. "It appears your account automatically purchased one of the properties you were browsing—our system marked it as confirmed."

Klaus stared at the manager, dumbfounded. Had he unknowingly made a purchase? He hadn't even decided yet!

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THE LAST PARAGON IN THE APOCALYPSEC43: Benefits of a platinum Customer

Klaus was beyond shocked to hear that he had already purchased a house. He hadn't even made his choice, yet somehow, a house had been bought in his name. It didn't make sense at all. The only logical explanation was that someone else had access to his account and made the purchase for him.

But when he checked his balance, he was even more puzzled—his account hadn't been deducted a single coin. How could he have bought a house without paying?

He looked back at the manager, who smiled as if nothing was amiss. "How... how did I buy a house without any money leaving my account?" Klaus asked, his mind racing.

The manager's expression remained calm. "Mr. Klaus, as a Platinum customer, certain properties are granted through a special program for individuals of your status. In this case, the house you selected was flagged for immediate transfer to you—no payment required."

Klaus stood frozen, speechless, but his instincts kicked in. He could tell the manager wasn't being completely truthful. Something about the situation felt off. It was as if someone was pulling strings behind the scenes, orchestrating events in his favor.

A single name floated to the forefront of his mind—Ohema. Her beautiful face flashed in his thoughts. But why would she be behind this? What would she gain from manipulating his situation so discreetly? Klaus was full of questions, his mind buzzing with the possibilities. There was only one person who could give him answers.

Before he could press the manager for the truth, the manager abruptly shifted the conversation. "Now, Mr. Klaus," he said, glancing at a document, "let's finalize your transaction and discuss the benefits that come with your new status as a platinum account holder."

Klaus bit back his questions for the moment, deciding to play along. But deep down, he knew he'd have to confront Ohema soon. She has done more than enough, the least he can do is know why.

"Alright, we can talk more about the benefits," Klaus said, deciding to go with the flow for now.

The manager smiled, clearly pleased. "Excellent, Mr. Klaus. With the purchase of this estate, you gain access to a number of exclusive perks. For starters, the estate comes fully furnished with luxury amenities, including a private security team and maintenance staff.

Additionally, you will have access to the Platinum Club, an exclusive society where only high-ranking individuals like yourself can network and socialize. This membership opens doors to powerful connections across the city."

Klaus listened carefully, taking in the information, but his mind kept wandering back to Ohema. Was this all connected to her somehow? And if so, what was her real motive?

"For your convenience, your estate is also equipped with advanced technology for communication, privacy, and enhanced security," the manager continued, his voice smooth. "Additionally, your new home comes with an Atlas Arcadia turbo car, a state-of-the-art vehicle known for its speed and durability. Perfect for someone of your status."

Klaus raised an eyebrow, impressed.

"And," the manager added, leaning forward slightly, "you'll have access to a private Tier 6 training area. This space is designed to allow high-level warriors like yourself to train without any disturbance, fully equipped to handle intense sessions. You won't find anything like it in the public sectors."

Klaus couldn't help but be intrigued. A Tier 6 training area? Only the elite could dream of that, and now it was his. Still, he couldn't shake the feeling that all of this was too good to be true.

"Anything else I should know about?" Klaus asked, forcing a casual tone, even as his mind raced with thoughts of Ohema and her possible involvement.

The manager smiled wider. "Well, Mr. Klaus, your estate also offers direct access to several hidden services only known to Platinum customers, but we'll leave that for when you're more settled in. For now, you're all set to enjoy your new life of luxury."

Klaus was impressed by how efficiently the bank handled everything. Before coming in, he expected a lot of complications, but things had unfolded almost effortlessly. Still, he had one more question on his mind.

"I have another question, Mr. Manager," Klaus said, leaning forward slightly. "My mother isn't a registered citizen. How would the procedure go if she wanted to obtain an ID?"

The manager smiled as if he had anticipated the question. "Ah, not to worry, Mr. Klaus. Given your current status as a Platinum customer, the process will be very straightforward for your mother. Normally, obtaining an ID involves a few steps—verification of residency, background checks, and so on.

However, because of your rank, all we would need is a simple recommendation from you, and the process will be expedited."

Klaus nodded, relief washing over him. He had feared it might be more complicated, but the manager's answer reassured him.

"The ID can be arranged within a few hours after your recommendation is submitted," the manager continued. "Your mother will be recognized as a citizen without the usual red tape. She'll be free to enjoy all the benefits of city life."

"Thank you, Mr. Manager," Klaus replied. "So now that this is settled, can I know how my estate looks, where it is, and when I can move in?" Klaus asked with a smile.

The manager pressed a button on his desk, and a projection of the estate appeared in front of them. It wasn't too big, nor too small, but perfectly situated within one of the most luxurious areas of the city. From the projection, Klaus could see that the estate had four rooms, a spacious hall, a pool, and a lush garden filled with all kinds of fruit trees.

The layout was elegant yet simple, with a serene, welcoming atmosphere.

"The estate also comes with a car and a full security team," the manager said again. "They'll be deployed to the property before you move in. If you have any personal items you'd like to transfer, just let us know, and we'll arrange it for you. As for when you can move in, that's entirely up to you."

Klaus nodded thoughtfully, feeling more at ease with how smoothly things were progressing. "I think I'll move in tomorrow. I'll need to prepare a few things first."

"Of course, Mr. Klaus. Everything will be ready for your arrival, just call the number on the screen and you will picked up to your new home." the manager said with a courteous nod.

"And for your mother," the manager added, "she can move in as well. Someone from the Identity Guild will come by and take care of her ID."

Klaus nodded in appreciation and then stood up to leave. A few seconds later, he was back on the ground floor of the bank. As he was about to exit, he noticed the lady he had promised to take a selfie with earlier, staring at him through the glass.

He smiled to himself, shaking his head. With a sigh, he decided to keep his word and walked over to her. They took three selfies and then she gave him her contact before Klaus was free to leave.

Back on the top floor, the manager let out a long sigh as soon as Klaus left. Moments later, a soft chime echoed in the room, signaling an incoming call. A holographic projection lit up in front of him, revealing the image of a woman.

"How did it go?" the lady asked, her voice cool but curious.

The manager straightened his posture before replying, "He's smart, very smart. It's only a matter of time before he figures out who she is."

"Well, that is to be expected," the lady said, her voice calm and measured. "However, we should leave that to her. Our only job is to make sure he lacks nothing."

The manager nodded, understanding the delicate balance of their task. "Yes, ma'am," he replied. "We'll ensure everything he needs is provided without raising suspicion."

The projection faded leaving the Manager to sit back up in a more comfortable posture. "What a lucky fella" He muttered with a slight smile.

As Klaus walked through the bustling streets toward Madam Fei's shop, he reflected on how smoothly things had gone. He hadn't expected the bank visit to be so seamless, with all the luxury and benefits that came with his new platinum status. Now that the financial matters were handled, his focus shifted back to business: offloading the goods from his last hunt before heading into the Forbidden Zone.

While walking, Klaus pulled out his phone to check out more of the bank's benefits. Besides all the perks and amenities, one feature particularly caught his attention—the bank also buys monster parts from hunters. However, their standards were high. They only dealt with parts from Tier 4 Dark Monsters and above.

Klaus's curiosity deepened, so he began reading about the rankings of monsters based on their classes. Tier 2 monsters, he learned, could only have two classes: Lesser and Great. Tier 3 monsters expanded that to three classes: Lesser, Great, and Dark. The same held for Tier 4. However, when it came to Tier 5 monsters, they gained an additional class: Terror.

This classification piqued his interest. He knew that entering the Forbidden Zone would likely bring him face-to-face with monsters of these higher classes, and the idea of facing a Tier 5 Terror-class beast stirred a mix of excitement for some unknown reason.

He had also learned more about the stages beyond the Grandmaster level. Once someone became a Saint, leveling up became much harder. It wasn't just about farming experience points anymore; it required gathering spiritual qi from the atmosphere or killing monsters to absorb energy from their cores. Klaus knew this path would only get more difficult as he advanced.

After nearly three hours of walking, Klaus finally arrived at Madam Fei's shop. He stepped inside, scanning the room to ensure no one else was around. Once he confirmed it was just him and Madam Fei, he removed his disguise, leaving her stunned.

Klaus grinned at her shocked expression. "As promised, I'm here with even more goods."

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THE LAST PARAGON IN THE APOCALYPSEC44: Madam Fei's Advise

Madam Fei stood there, stunned, her eyes wide as she looked at the boy who had surprised her just days ago with those high-tier monster bodies. But now, Klaus's transformation left her even more speechless. He hadn't just grown more handsome; he had become unique.

His pure white hair and golden eyes set him apart in a way few could ignore. Though many could dye their hair white, something is mesmerizing about the natural color. It gave him an air of mystery and enchantment that dyed hair could never replicate. Klaus had shifted from merely good-looking to something beyond—handsome in a way that defied expectations.

Klaus noticed Madam Fei's shocked expression and smiled slightly. Normally, such stares from others would make him uncomfortable or even irritated, but with Madam Fei, it was different. Her reaction amused him, and instead of feeling annoyed, he found himself quietly entertained by it.

"As promised, I'm here with even more goods," Klaus said, snapping Madam Fei out of her reverie.

She blinked, still slightly dazed, before blurting out, "You—when did you become this handsome?"

Klaus chuckled softly at her reaction, feeling more at ease now. "I suppose it just happened," he replied, a hint of amusement in his voice.

"Anyway, I have some stuff for you," Klaus said, shifting the conversation back to business. He began retrieving the bodies of the monsters he had killed during his second hunt. After that, he carefully placed the zombie cores on the counter.

Madam Fei's eyes widened as she looked at the sheer number of monster bodies and cores in front of her. "This..." she muttered, dumbfounded, trying to process what she was seeing. Hundreds of monster bodies and cores lay before her.

"Well, my last hunt went surprisingly better than I expected," Klaus said with a smile. "No need to rush with the appraisal. I'll leave them with you, and you can send the payment once you've had time to check them all," he added, his tone calm and confident.

Madam Fei, still stunned, nodded slowly. "You're full of surprises, aren't you?" she said, shaking her head with a small smile. "I'll make sure to appraise everything carefully and send what you're owed."

Klaus nodded again, more at ease with Madam Fei. Despite his rising status, he still planned to continue selling to her, at least until she couldn't buy anymore.

"I'll be heading into the Forbidden Zone soon," Klaus said casually. "Next time, I might come back with even better goods."

Madam Fei's eyes widened in concern. "The Forbidden Zone... that's a dangerous place, Klaus. Are you sure you want to go there?"

Klaus smiled, his confidence unwavering. "Dangerous, yes. But I'm ready. There's no growth without risk," he replied calmly.

"Well, I guess you're right," Madam Fei said with a sigh. "But if you're heading into the Forbidden Zone, this might be our last transaction. Mutated monsters are several times more expensive than regular ones. And although I said I could buy anything you sell, I won't be able to afford more than a dozen Mutated Monsters at most."

She trailed off, a hint of regret in her voice.

"It doesn't matter," Klaus said casually. "I can leave them with you, and when you come up with the money, you can send it to me."

Madam Fei looked at him with a gentle smile. "You clearly don't realize the value of Mutated monsters, nor how high the demand is these days. Even the weakest Mutated monster is a hundred times more expensive than a high-tier normal monster."

"A hundred times?" Klaus was taken aback, his eyes widening in shock.

"Yes," she continued, nodding. "And that's just for ordinary Mutated monsters."

"It's still the same to me," Klaus replied confidently. "I'll bring them here, and you can use your connections to sell them. That way, you earn some profit, and I'll still be getting the better end of the deal."

Madam Fei smiled, clearly pleased by the arrangement. She knew that with her experience as a businesswoman, she could sell those Mutated monsters for far more than Klaus could on his own. It was a win-win situation for both of them—less effort, more gain.

"However," she said, her tone growing more serious, "you should be very careful going into the Forbidden Zone. That place is filled with dangerous monsters, but worse than that, you might encounter vile humans—more vicious than the monsters themselves. But the fact that you're going there tells me you're a powerful warrior, so let me share a little secret with you, consider it an advice."

Klaus leaned in slightly, intrigued by her shift in tone.

"When you enter the Forbidden Zone," she continued, "all kills you make will be recorded and awarded points. These points determine your might and strength. What many don't know is that these points are more than just a ranking—they open doors. Some arrogant people can get ahead because they have powerful backers, but those without support can only rely on their own strength."

Madam Fei paused, her eyes locking onto Klaus's. "Even if you're strong, without the right connections, you'll be blocked from entering certain places. But there's a way around that. The point system. If you manage to climb into the top 1000 in this city, your status will rise higher than you could ever hope for."

Klaus took in her words thoughtfully before asking, "How many rankings are there, and how hard is it to enter?"

"There are four rankings," Madam Fei explained. "City, Region, Union, and World Rankings. But don't concern yourself with the last three right now—just appearing on the City Ranking is more than enough. You should know, that each ranking only has a thousand people, and even the one in the 1000th spot holds significant influence.

Making it onto the list will be your opportunity to become an important figure."

Klaus smirked. "So essentially, I need to become popular by showing everyone I'm a true warrior," he said with a mischievous glint in his eyes.

Madam Fei chuckled. "In a way, yes. But remember, it's not just about popularity—it's about proving your strength. Get on that list, and doors will start opening for you."

Klaus couldn't help but smile to himself. Even before Madam Fei's advice, he had already set his sights on something far grander: world domination. But for now, his first objective was complete. He had secured a house for his mother, ensuring she could live a happy and peaceful life for the rest of her days. That thought brought him a deep sense of satisfaction.

Now, his focus shifted to his next goal—becoming several times stronger. He knew that without power, his future trials, especially the looming Tribulation, would be incredibly dangerous. It was time to make bold moves.

The past fifty years had brought many new discoveries, things that could make him much more powerful. Klaus understood that if he hesitated, those opportunities would slip through his fingers. The path forward required strength and courage, and Klaus was ready to seize every chance that came his way.

"Thank you, Madam Fei," Klaus said with a nod. After exchanging a few more pleasantries, he left the shop and headed home. Along the way, he stopped to buy some nice food—something he hadn't indulged in for a while. With his recent success, he felt it was a good time to treat himself.

When he arrived home, he enjoyed a hearty meal and shared the details of his day with his mother. However, her response was not what he had anticipated.

"First of all," she said, her tone serious, "you shouldn't call her and start interrogating her. It would be best if you didn't mention any of this at all."

Klaus was taken aback. "But Mom, I think Ohema might be more than she seems. I'm concerned about what's going on."

His mother anticipated his next move and quickly advised against it. "Klaus, women handle things differently. We do things you might not fully understand. So, trust me when I say that you should just act like nothing has changed. If she's ready to share anything, she will do so in her own time."

Klaus nodded, taking his mother's advice to heart, though he was still a bit rattled by the events from earlier.

His mother, with a teasing glint in her eye, broke the tension. "Hehe, who would have thought my innocent baby boy would be getting a Sugar Mommy right off the bat? You little player. Just make sure you take good care of her, okay?"

Klaus blushed and chuckled at his mother's playful remark. "Mom, stop teasing. It's not like that. With everything happening, Ohema must have a terrifying status. Someone like me isn't suited to be with her. We're just friends."

His mother clicked her tongue, shaking her head. "Who are you kidding? Even if you can't see it now, I'm sure she has a different opinion of you. Just promise me you won't do anything to hurt her."

Klaus smiled, touched by her concern. "I promise, Mom."

She continued, her tone lightening as she brushed her hand through his white hair. "And stop acting all modest. With how you look now, you could win anyone's heart. Look, even I'm blushing."

Klaus laughed, feeling a mix of embarrassment and warmth from his mother's teasing. Her support and humor were just too satisfying.

"Mom, we'll be moving to our new home tomorrow," Klaus said, retrieving a small box from his space ring. "But before we leave, I have a gift for you."

He handed the box to her with a smile.

As his mother opened the box, tears began to streak down her face. Inside was the wedding ring she had sold to buy the Celestial Water for his awakening.

"This…" Her voice trembled as she looked at the ring.

"You've sacrificed so much for me, Mom," Klaus said softly. "At least have this to remember the good times, every now and then."

His mother's tears flowed freely now, a mix of joy and emotion. She clutched the ring to her chest. Klaus hugged her letting her well up on his chest.

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THE LAST PARAGON IN THE APOCALYPSEC45: Moving into Their New Home

The next morning, Klaus helped his mother pack the few belongings they would take with them. Though their items weren't valuable, they were what had sustained them over the past year, and they had grown attached to them. After packing, Klaus stored everything in his space ring.

They then made their way toward the city. After an hour of walking and chatting, they reached the city gates and used Klaus's identity badge to gain entry. When Klaus showed the badge to the guards, their expressions shifted to surprise. Klaus couldn't help but smile.

As expected, his ID had a different effect. The guards didn't even ask him to remove his sunglasses and cap. They simply waved them through. Klaus and his mother walked a little further until they reached a small park with a bench. They sat down, and Klaus called the number the manager had given him.

A few minutes later, a car pulled up to the park. A young man stepped out and greeted them. "Mr. Klaus, I am from the Royal Gold Reserve Bank. I'm here to pick you up and take you to your new home," he said, opening the car door for them. Klaus nodded in acknowledgment and led his mother into the car.

The vehicle sped away, leaving the slum behind. Klaus looked at his mother and smiled, feeling a wave of relief and happiness. Their lives were finally taking a turn for the better.

After about an hour of driving, they arrived at a grand mansion with a majestic gate. As the gates swung open, they revealed a wide, tiled path lined with lush flowers. The car drove through, and after five minutes of slow driving, the mansion came into view.

It was a small mansion, similar to what Klaus had seen in the projection, but seeing it in person left him astonished. The entire mansion was built entirely of glass. The glasses have a hint of diamond brilliance in them.

However, while the house was built using glass, they are nowhere brittle. They are durable glass made from the rareless material that can withstand an attack from even a Tier 7 monster. From the walls to the roofing, everything is built with the best quality material. Had Klaus asked, he would have been told the house is more than a billion gold coins.

The car pulled up to the front entrance, and the young man from the Royal Gold Reserve Bank opened the door for them. Klaus and his mother stepped out, their eyes wide with awe. The young man led them to the front door, which was framed by a delicate pattern of etched glass.

Inside, the mansion was just as impressive. The interior was bright and airy, with glass walls providing an unobstructed view of the surrounding garden. The floors were polished marble, and the furnishings were tastefully arranged, creating a blend of comfort and sophistication.

From the inside, one can see the outside clearly, however, the same cannot be said for when you are outside, or when you look at the next room.

Klaus's mother looked around, her eyes filled with wonder and relief. Klaus felt a mix of pride and happiness as he watched her take in their new home.

The young man from the bank handed Klaus a remote key, "This is your new home. If you need anything or have any questions, please contact the manager directly. The maids and security will arrive within the hour"

"Thank you," Klaus replied, taking the key. He turned to his mother, who was still absorbing the grandeur of their new house.

"This is it, Mom. I hope you like it," Klaus said, his voice filled with anticipation.

"Of course I do. This is wonderful, Klaus," his mother replied with a beaming smile. Seeing her happiness, Klaus felt a surge of joy and relief.

About an hour later, two dozen people arrived at the house. Klaus was taken aback by their sudden appearance. There were ten women and ten men, each a Grandmaster-stage expert. He hurried to greet them.

"Master Klaus, I am Kofi, the head of security task to protecting you and your mother," said a young man in his early thirties, bowing slightly.

"Please, there's no need to bow and just call me Klaus," Klaus repeated warmly, placing a reassuring hand on Kofi's shoulder. "In fact, I insist on being called Klaus from now on. You are all my seniors, and it would be rude for me to be called Master."

Hearing his words, the twenty people standing before him felt an unexpected wave of relief. They exchanged glances, their stiff postures softening. Many of them had worked under harsher conditions before, where servants were treated as nothing more than tools. But this time, something was different. Klaus had shown them respect, treating them like equals rather than mere servants.

It was a small gesture, yet it meant the world to them.

As they were processing the surprising kindness of their new employer, Klaus's mother approached the group. Klaus smiled and turned to the gathered staff. "Everyone, this is my mother. You can call her Auntie."

The staff members bowed slightly, greeting her with the same respect. Klaus's mother smiled warmly at them and said, "There's no need to be so formal. As Klaus said, we're all family now. Let's treat each other with kindness and respect, and there's no need to stand on ceremony."

Klaus smiled slightly at his mother's words but, deep down, he was surprised. How had she overheard what he said? He was certain she hadn't been there when he made that comment. He quickly brushed the thought aside, choosing not to dwell on it.

The twenty staff members introduced themselves one by one and then dispersed to their respective duties. Kofi, the head of security, took Klaus on a thorough tour of the mansion, showing him the impressive security protocols that had been implemented.

They explored the entire house, including its hidden sensors, emergency escape routes, and even an advanced monitoring system that kept an eye on every corner of the property. After about an hour of detailed explanations, they finally wrapped everything up.

Klaus then made his way to the garage and was relieved to find the car he had been promised. Its design was nothing short of extraordinary. It's the kind of car built for long-range travel and rugged terrain. The car had a sleek, aerodynamic body with sharp, angular lines that made it look both futuristic and aggressive.

Large, rotating tires which are perfect for navigating rough landscapes are securely fixed raising the car slightly up. The exterior gleamed with a metallic finish, accented by glowing strips of light, while the front grille was broad and the windows narrow, enhancing its imposing look.

Per the manual, the car ran on a hybrid quantum engine capable of extracting energy from the Earth's magnetic field. Klaus was impressed; this meant the vehicle could theoretically run indefinitely, without ever needing to refuel.

[A/N: Image in the comment section]

"Having money is indeed great," Klaus murmured to himself with a smile as he turned and walked back inside the house.

Upon entering, he found his mother happily chatting with one of the maids. Not wanting to disturb them, he quietly made his way to his room. Once inside, he sat on the edge of his bed and reached into his space ring, pulling out a golden card. He hesitated for a moment, staring at it thoughtfully, before setting it aside and picking up his phone.

After a deep breath, he dialed a number and waited as the phone rang. After a few rings, a familiar face appeared on the screen. "Hello, Ohema," Klaus said with a small smile. "I called, didn't I?"

Ohema smiled back, her expression warm and teasing. "I thought you wouldn't call," she replied playfully.

"I was already planning to come looking for you."

Klaus chuckled softly, feeling a little lighter. "Well, I couldn't keep you waiting forever, could I?"

"Tell me," Ohema teased. "How many ladies have you called before calling me, Mr. Pretty Boy?" She winked playfully.

Klaus smirked, his expression turning mock-serious. He wasn't about to letting her win just like that.

"Let's see," he said, raising his hand and slowly counting on his fingers, pretending to recall something. His mischievous smile widened as he continued the act, his eyes glancing up at Ohema with a playful glint.

"How have you been?" Ohema asked, her voice softer now.

Klaus leaned back, a small smile tugging at his lips. "I won a lottery."

"Errh..." Ohema responded, caught off guard. Though her tone remained calm, Klaus could tell, even through the video call, that she was slightly shaken by the news. He had always been good at picking up on small shifts in people's emotions. However, he didn't act on it, rather, he continue to tease her.

"Yep, you heard me right. This little guy is now a billionaire," Klaus said, flashing a smirk. "You should let me take you out and spoil you rotten."

Ohema raised an eyebrow but smiled, clearly amused. Unlike Klaus, who was trying to be more reserve, she didn't hold back as she replied

"Finally," she said with a playful grin. "I'll let you know when I'm free."

Klaus blinked, surprised by her response. He hadn't expected her to accept his playful offer so readily. He chuckled, trying to mask the surprise. "Alright then, I'll be waiting," he said smoothly, but inwardly, he was a little shocked.

Ohema smiled warmly, exchanging a few more playful words before ending the call. Klaus was still smiling to himself when, out of nowhere, a voice broke the silence.

"You little player," his mother teased from the doorway. "I knew you had game, but I never expected you to be this quick."

Klaus nearly jumped out of his skin, his face flushing red. He hadn't even noticed his mother slip into the room. Her comment left him both blushing and shocked.

"Mom!" he shouted, trying to hide his embarrassment. "How long have you been standing there?"

His mother chuckled, clearly enjoying his flustered reaction. "Long enough," she said with a playful grin. "Seems like my boy has grown into quite the smooth talker."

"You should really introduce me to this mysterious Ohema of yours," she added, her playful smile widening.

"Mom..." Klaus groaned, trying to laugh it off. "It's not like that. We're just friends."

His mother raised an eyebrow. "Mhm, sure. 'Just friends,'" she teased. "Well, when you're ready to bring her around, I'll be here, waiting."

Klaus sighed, shaking his head with a smile. "I'll let you know if it ever gets to that point." Klaus forced his mother out of his room. He sighed and then tapped on some part of the wall, a small passage opened and he walked through entering the training ground.

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THE LAST PARAGON IN THE APOCALYPSEC46: Cultivating the First Star Diagram

Klaus entered a spacious room filled with various training equipment. He glanced at a few of the machines and weights but didn't approach any of them. Instead, he walked over to a mat, sat down in the lotus position, and focused inwardly. His main objective wasn't physical training today; it was to cultivate the First Star Diagram which is also a type of physical training.

According to the knowledge in his mind, he needed to temper his bones using the energy of a star. The instructions were clear: each time he leveled up, he had to temper all his bones before advancing again.

Currently, Klaus was just a Level 1 Ascended, so this was the perfect moment to begin the tempering process.

He closed his eyes, letting his mood settle and his mind clear. Then, with deliberate precision, he formed several hand seals. A diagram began to glow on the ground beneath him. Klaus smiled slightly, pleased that he had formed the correct seal. Next, he created another hand seal, causing the diagram to start spinning slowly.

It rotated for a while before coming to a sudden stop. As soon as it did, Klaus felt his Spiritual energy stir within him, heating up and circulating faster. His body began to feel warm and loose, a sign that the tempering process was beginning.

Suddenly, Klaus felt a foreign energy enter his body. His bones began to feel soft and hot. The energy was both violent and soothing, making him sweat on his back while remaining calm. It started at his head and flowed through his entire body.

The process lasted only a few seconds before it abruptly stopped. Klaus then felt a violent shaking in his soul sea. A part of his consciousness was drawn into it. As he looked around, he saw the soul sea quaking as if a storm were approaching.

Then, the first door creaked open slightly. From behind it, Klaus saw what appears to be a world, a rather strange sight. He didn't dwell on it, though, since something else caught his attention.

For just a fleeting moment, he saw a blood-red star boiling like blood on fire. A wave of bloodthirsty energy emanated from it. Even though the sight was brief, it left a deep impact on Klaus. He felt a profound shift within him as if something fundamental had changed.By just a single glance, his mood shifted unknowingly.

Suddenly, a torrent of blood-red energy erupted from the door, filling Klaus's entire Soul Sea. He was jolted by the surge, and before he could call for help from the Senior from behind the door, he was forcefully pulled back to his physical body.

Once back in the training room, Klaus immediately felt his bones being soaked in a powerful, painful, and terrifying energy. His bones started to heated up as the red energy began to flood his body. The entire room was suffused with a dense red qi, almost corroding everything.

The red energy surged from Klaus's head to his toes. With each cycle, he felt an overwhelming power build inside him. Yet, when the next wave of energy hit, that earlier strength seemed insignificant in comparison. He could do nothing but endure the increasing pain he was going through. The process seem automated making him unable to stop even if he wanted.

"The tempering process is something you must endure," a voice echoed in his mind. "After each cycle, the pain multiplies several times over. You must cleanse your bones of all impurities first."

"Senior," Klaus replied, his voice shaking slightly. "Are you saying the process hasn't even started yet? I am dying here even if my strength is also rising."

The voice chuckled, almost mocking him. "Foolish brat, do you think this is the real power of the Star Diagram? This is merely the beginning. Once you complete the first Bone Tempering stage, you'll be able to crush even Tier 6 monster with just a slap."

Klaus's heart pounded in his chest at the Senior's words. Even now, without the true tempering, he felt several times stronger than before. He believed he could smash through any opponent with a single punch. But the Senior's words made it clear: the real tempering hadn't even begun.

Just how monstrous is this technique? Klaus thought, stunned by the potential it held. Klaus immediately clenched his fists, channeling even more energy into his body. Right now, he craved strength, and since he had found a path, all he could do was endure and grow stronger. The pain is the payment.

"Don't resist it," the Senior's voice instructed calmly. "Let the energy flow through your body. The star energy will temper not just your bones but your entire body. Your bones form the structure of your body, and with each tempering, your body will adapt to your ever-growing strength."

Klaus gritted his teeth and released his resistance. A surge of energy poured into him, and an intense burst of power erupted from his body, shaking the training room.

"Now, guide the energy along the path set in the diagram," the Senior continued. "Once this step is complete, you'll sense the star energy more. Only then can the true Bone Tempering begin."

Klaus nodded, focusing his mind as he moved the energy. He started from his head, allowing the energy to flow down to his toes. As it passed through him, he felt a wave of nourishing energy cleanse his body. It was as if all the impurities had been washed away, leaving him feeling light and refreshed, as though he had been reborn.

"This feeling is amazing!" Klaus exclaimed, marveling at the newfound strength coursing through him. He could feel his body growing several times stronger.

"I can sense it. Damn, what a powerful energy," Klaus muttered in awe as the last of the energy finished washing through his bones. An immediate connection was formed with an external force, one so powerful that it dwarfed his previous spiritual Qi. When he had awakened and level up, he felt powerful, but now that he is feeling this energy, he felt even more powerful.

His previous strength was nothing compared to this.

"If only I could..." Klaus's curiosity got the better of him. A reckless idea formed in his mind, but the temptation to explore it was irresistible. "I guess there's no harm in trying," he smiled, and without hesitation, he began channeling the star energy into his spiritual qi pool.

The moment the two energies touched, chaos erupted within his soul sea. A violent whirlpool of conflicting forces swirled around, threatening to tear him apart.

"What are you doing?" the Senior's voice rang out, sounding alarmed.

"We'll find out in a few minutes," Klaus replied through gritted teeth. The instant the energies collided, his body heated up, as if being torn apart and reassembled over and over again. He knew this wasn't literally happening, but the sensation was unbearable. He was mixing two incompatible energies.

"Idiot! You can't mix two energies that don't share any properties! Stop before you explode!" the Senior's voice echoed, filled with urgency.

Klaus ignored the warnings. His body started to turn red as if his very flesh was burning from within, yet he forced himself to endure the excruciating pain.

"Stop it!" the Senior screamed, but Klaus, fighting through the agony, forced a reply.

"No need to be scared, Senior," he gasped, barely able to speak as his mind battled the torture. His entire body shook, but Klaus refused to relent.

Cracks began to form all over his body, widening with every agonizing second. His skin split open, blood seeping through the ever-expanding fissures. His entire being screamed in pain, yet he refused to stop.

"Your foolishness will kill you," the Senior warned, his voice laced with helplessness as he observed the reckless merging of energies. But Klaus was far beyond reason, pushing through the unbearable torture with sheer determination.

As the cracks deepened, blood trickled from his eyes and nose, yet Klaus continued, stubbornly clinging to his experiment. His aura flickered wildly, growing more unstable by the moment. But Klaus whispered to himself, "Even if I don't know what or why I want this, I will succeed."

Then, without warning, a violent explosion erupted within his soul sea. His vision darkened suddenly, and his consciousness was pulled inside his soul sea. There, he saw it: the spiritual qi, shimmering white, and the star energy, burning red. The two forces spun furiously, clashing like enemies in an eternal battle.

"So that's it," Klaus murmured, realization dawning. "Education really is important." He smacked his forehead, enlightened by the conflict between the two energies.

"So all I have to do was transform one into the other. I can't have both," Klaus muttered. It appeared he was doing the wrong thing from the start.

"That might actually work," the Senior's voice chimed in from behind the door, sounding impressed for the first time.

Klaus grinned. "What do you think, Senior? Does this little paragon qualify now?" His tone was like a kid who has won his fathers approval.

"Get to work," the Senior urged, "I'll help guide the transformation. Success depends on you."

With a nod, Klaus focused on his spiritual qi, carefully slowing its wild spinning. He immediately felt like his energy had entered a black hole. Sweat drenched him as the task demanded every ounce of his strength and concentration. But as he focused, a sudden light shot from the door, merging with Klaus and infusing him with boundless energy.

The spiritual qi began to slow, its frantic motion calming. Klaus clenched his teeth, using the opening to feed the star energy into the spiritual whirlpool. His soul sea trembled as the star energy gradually enveloped the spiritual qi.

"Fuck, it's working," Klaus whispered, excitement bubbling through the pain. Power surged through him, raw and immeasurable. "Is this what it feels like? I feel like I could cut the earth in half!" He clenched his fists, both in his soul sea and in the physical realm.

"What are you so impressed about? This isn't even a thousandth of a star's true power. Your thinking is good for now, but because of this approach, your future cultivation will become several times harder," the senior warned.

Klaus smiled and replied, "Mr. Johnson used to say that with strength, everything can be bent. I believe that with enough power, it doesn't matter if there's a mountain blocking me—I'll cleave through it and come out on the other side as the winner."

As soon as Klaus finished speaking, a surge of energy erupted within his soul sea. Suddenly, dense red energy gushed out of the door, flooding his soul.

"This..." The senior started to say something but but stopped

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THE LAST PARAGON IN THE APOCALYPSEC47 Terrifying changes

A dense red star energy gushed out, flooding Klaus's soul sea with an overwhelming and terrifying power. Outside his body, small runes began revolving around him, while his aura surged higher by the second. Inside his body, his bones started glowing golden as ancient runes lit up along them.

"How is this possible?" the Senior muttered, wide-eyed as he observed the changes.

"Senior, what's happening?" Klaus asked, feeling his strength soar and his Star Qi rising to unfathomable levels.

"You've merged with the star energy," the Senior replied, "and now it's reforming your bones."

"Reforming? Does that mean I'm getting new bones?" Klaus questioned, but the Senior remained silent. Klaus quickly realized the answer for himself. He could feel it—deep within his body, his arm bones were turning transparent. As more energy flooded in, the rest of his bones began to shift, becoming clearer with every second.

Once all his bones had turned transparent, blood-red runes started merging with them, pulsing with ancient power. Then, a sudden agony overtook him. Klaus felt as if every bone inside him was being crushed, shattered, and reformed from scratch.

"Endure, Klaus!" the Senior urged. "This is a blessing. If you manage to reform all your bones, even the gods will envy you!"

As the Senior spoke, the heavens on the outside roared above. Dark clouds formed ominously, but just as quickly as they appeared, they dispersed, leaving behind an eerie calm.

As more blood-red runes merged with Klaus's bones, they gradually turned translucent, their hue shifting from normal white to deep crimson. The runes circled around them, pulsing with power, while more Star Qi surged into his body, filling his bones with immense energy.

"This feeling..." Klaus muttered, sensing his body becoming several times stronger. Then, a grin spread across his face. "Hahaha! This is great! This is truly incredible!" Klaus was beyond overjoyed.

The searing pain that had wracked his body began to ease over time, but he didn't focus on it. What consumed his thoughts now was the transformation within him. His energy source had changed —from Spiritual Qi to the much more powerful version, Star Qi. He could feel the vast difference.

Where once he needed to use 40 percent of his energy to unleash an attack, now, with just 2 percent of his Star Qi, he could achieve a far more devastating effect.

With this shift, Klaus realized that whenever he leveled up, his Star Qi pool would continue to grow. However, he also understood that the power of his new energy would limit how much of it he could accumulate. Star Qi was several times stronger than Spiritual Qi, but it would take a lot more effort to expand its reserves. This thought brought a twinge of frustration.

"What are you being gloomy about?" the Senior interrupted. "You've reformed your bones, gaining something, not even gods, humans, beasts, or demons have possessed since the dawn of time. Don't underestimate yourself, Klaus. The current you is a terrifying existence. Just having these bones is a gift. With minimal energy, you'll be able to unleash attacks that would make others tremble."

The Senior's words made Klaus's heart race. He had never imagined his bones could be so powerful. It was hard to wrap his mind around it.

"Senior," Klaus asked, still in awe, "can you tell me more about these bones of mine?"

"I can't say much," the Senior replied, "but know this: you no longer need to cultivate the star diagram like before. These new bones of yours have evolved to the point where they will constantly temper themselves using your energy. Fortunately, you have more than enough Star Qi to sustain this ongoing evolution."

He paused before continuing, his tone firm, "Focus on raising your cultivation base. That should be your priority now. With your current cultivation level, you can only access less than 5 percent of your full strength. But as your cultivation rises, so will your ability to harness the full power of your bones."

Klaus's mind buzzed as he absorbed the Senior's words. Just 5 percent, yet he could tell the current him is about twenty times stronger than before he started cultivating the star diagram.

"This cultivation method is more terrifying than I thought," Klaus muttered to himself, clenching his fists with determination. "I have to enter the Forbidden Zone soon. This time, I won't come out until I've leveled up a few times."

With that, Klaus focused inward, letting his consciousness reenter his body. When he stood up, he immediately noticed how much stronger he felt. His muscles were taut with power, and his bones hummed with energy. Curious to test his new strength, Klaus walked over to a strength-measuring machine.

Clenching his fist tightly, he punched the plate without hesitation.

BOOM.

The entire training ground trembled from the force of his blow. Klaus's eyes widened as a number flashed on the display: "9,000Kg"

"This... this is too good to be true," Klaus whispered, staring in disbelief at the result. He couldn't believe how much stronger he'd become.

After a moment, he sighed and left the training ground. What he needed now were live targets to truly test how far he'd progressed. But there was one issue—he had promised his mother he wouldn't go hunting for at least a week, and it has only been less than three days since his last hunt.

"I'll have to convince her somehow," Klaus muttered to himself as he entered the bathroom to freshen up. Once he was clean, he ate a quick meal, then took a slow walk around their home, taking everything in, deep in thought.

Eventually, Klaus returned inside and went to his loving mother. He approached her with a small, hopeful smile. "Mom, I know I said I wouldn't go hunting for a while," he began, using his most innocent voice. "But I need to get used to my recent cultivation. I promise I'll be careful." He finished with wide, pleading eyes, hoping to sway her decision.

Klaus's mother looked up from where she was sitting, her eyes narrowing slightly as she studied her son. She knew him too well, and his attempt to use his puppy eyes wasn't lost on her. She sighed softly, placing her hands on her lap.

"Klaus," she began gently, "you've barely had time to rest. I can see how much you've grown, but you promised me you wouldn't rush back out there."

"I know, Mom," Klaus replied earnestly, stepping closer. "But this time is different. I've gained so much strength in these last few days—more than I ever imagined. I just need to see what I'm truly capable of now. I need to test myself so I can protect us better."

His mother's expression softened. She could see the fire in his eyes, the same determination she had seen when he first awakened. It was hard to argue with his reasoning, especially knowing how much Klaus wanted to improve their lives. She could feel the sincerity in his words, and though she worried, she also knew that Klaus wouldn't let his new power go untested for long.

With a heavy sigh, she nodded. "Alright, Klaus. You can go. But," she added firmly, "you must promise me you'll be cautious. I don't want you to take unnecessary risks."

Klaus grinned, relieved and grateful. "I promise, Mom. I'll be careful. I'll stick to areas I know are safe."

His mother smiled softly, though her eyes remained serious. "You're stronger now, Klaus, but that doesn't mean you're invincible. Don't let this power make you reckless."

"I won't, I swear," Klaus said, hugging his mother tightly. "Thank you, Mom. You're the best." He gave her a quick kiss on the cheek before running to his room.

Once there, he called Uncle Ziggy, excitedly informing him that he had obtained his ID and could now officially join the Bloodaxe Mercenary team. A few minutes later, Klaus received a message confirming his membership with the team. His joy was palpable, and he went to bed that night with a sense of satisfaction, looking forward to the wild adventures ahead.

The next morning, his mother prepared various dishes for him, which Klaus stored in his space ring. But despite his protests, she insisted he also take his bag filled with snacks. After a final, heartfelt hug, he left with Kofi, who drove him to the Hunters Guild.

Inside the Guild, Klaus quickly bought a hunting pass. He was given a watch-like device that could identify monsters, their grades, and classes. It also recorded points for each kill.

The points system was as follows: killing a Tier 2 monster earned 100 points, a Tier 3 monster earned 500 points, a Tier 4 monster earned 10,000 points, and a Tier 5 monster earned 100,000 points. In the Forbidden Zone, however, monsters came in different classes, each with its own point system.

Lesser monsters earned twice the base points, great monsters five times, Dark monsters ten times, and Terror monsters twenty times.

Klaus frowned at the complexity of the points system. He knew he couldn't change the rules, so he resolved to follow them and see where his newfound strength would lead him. Thankfully, only those under the Saint stage were allowed to enter Tier 2 and 3 Forbidden Zones. Klaus bought a Tier 2 pass, where the strongest monsters were Tier 5 Terrors.

With everything in place, Klaus felt a mix of excitement and nervousness as he prepared to head into the forest. He was led to a waiting area. After a while, many more hunters appeared and sat in wait.

After three hours, the place was filled up. Klaus sensed almost everyone was a grandmaster stage expert. Some even sneer when they sense his cultivation base. Clearly, they are looking down on him. After a while, the last person came. They were led into a huge armored shuttle which quickly drove them away.

Three more hours later, they appeared in a ruined City. "From here onwards, you are your own. Transportation will arrive a week from today, those who survive should be here by then"

Klaus clenched his fist and then disappeared into the ruined city ready to hunt.

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THE LAST PARAGON IN THE APOCALYPSEC48: Start of a Slaughter

As soon as Klaus entered Ruin City, he pulled up a map from the watch on his wrist. According to the map, he had entered a Tier 2 Forbidden Zone known as Ruin City. This place was once a thriving metropolis before the Apocalypse. Now, it was a dangerous territory ruled by a pack of White Strip Mountain Wolves and other terrifying monsters, each a menace to society.

From the limited records Klaus had found, he learned that aside from the wolves, the area was home to several other vicious monsters. Notable among them were the Red Scale Python, the Jade White Mountain Lion, and the Ground Drake Lizard King. These creatures were all Tier 5 Terror Monsters, and their locations had been marked on the map.

Even though Klaus had grown stronger, he knew better than to go after a Tier 5 monster right away. He wasn't about to take on the big threats just yet. First, he needed to understand his own abilities better and figure out how to use them effectively in combat.

For now, his goal was to hunt smaller monsters, test his limits, and gradually work his way up to the more dangerous creatures lurking in the city.

"Tier 3 should be a good start," Klaus thought to himself. He knew these monsters were different from the ones he'd faced before, but he was eager to test himself. He didn't want to underestimate them, but he had grown far stronger than he once was. His confidence pushed him to aim higher, even if it meant taking on more than he could handle.

With that thought, Klaus ventured deeper into the city. The broken ruins surrounded him, remnants of a world long lost to chaos. After a few minutes of walking, he suddenly stopped. Closing his eyes, a smile crept onto his face. "I guess that painful transformation wasn't for nothing," he muttered to himself.

His senses had expanded dramatically. Now, he could detect anything within a 5-kilometer radius. It was more incredible than he had imagined. He could feel the presence of monsters, their realms, and even their classes. At that moment, Klaus could sense a dozen Tier 3 monsters nearby, ranging from Lesser to the Great class, all within his expanded range.

Wasting no time, he locked onto his first target: a spike-tail crocodile, a powerful lizard-type monster. As he approached within 200 meters, the creature sensed his presence and charged at him, its sharp tail poised for attack.

Klaus smirked, clearly unfazed. His sword went into a casual swing, slicing through the air effortlessly without even bothering to channel his elemental essence or star energy into his sword. The blade cut clean through the monster's neck, and its head rolled to the ground.

Just like that, a Tier 3 Great Monster was killed—without Klaus breaking a sweat. No elemental essence or star qi was used. Just a normal swing.

[You have killed a Tier 3 Great Monster called Spike-Tail Crocodile. You have received 7,000 Exp.]

[You've earned 2,500 ranking points.]

"As expected, killing mutated monsters pays more than the ordinary ones," Klaus thought with satisfaction. The last time he killed a Tier 3 monster, he had only received 3,000 Exp. This time, however, he had gained 7,000 Exp.

In addition to that, he had earned 2,500 ranking points for his first kill in the zone. "This is a good start," he said to himself with a nod of approval. He quickly stored away the monster's body in his space ring and was about to move on when something caught his eye. On the ground, there was a small, glowing object.

"So this is the core," Klaus muttered. He had read about these on his way to the zone, so he immediately recognized it. The core was smaller than an egg, yet as he held it, he could feel the boundless energy it contained. After admiring the core for a moment, Klaus placed it inside his space ring and set his sights on his next target.

"I need to level up quickly," Klaus whispered as he swiftly stabbed his sword into the neck of a Berserker Rat, another Tier 3 Great Monster. It barely had time to react before it fell lifeless to the ground. Klaus moved seamlessly from one monster to the next, cutting them down with ease.

Despite not distributing his 700 points from previous level-ups, Klaus's speed had already become monstrous. He was moving with incredible agility, far beyond what he'd once thought possible.

[You have killed a Tier 3 Great Monster called Blue Fur Rabbit. You have received 7,000 Exp.]

[You've earned 2,500 ranking points.]

"How curious," Klaus mused. "There are no Dark Monsters here. Does that mean these monsters live in a hierarchy based on class?"

After killing 23 monsters, Klaus noticed that every single one had been a Tier 3 Great Monster. Not a single Dark monster or anything higher-tier had appeared. It started to feel like he was stuck fighting weaker opponents, far below his current level.

"I need a stronger challenge. These monsters are just too weak," Klaus said with a hint of disappointment. He quickly realized he had become something of a bully. He hadn't even needed to use his Star Qi, yet he was able to kill dozens of monsters in less than 10 minutes. His power was truly terrifying.

As he reflected on this, Klaus started to understand that the star diagram he had cultivated was far more powerful than he had originally thought. Even though some of the monsters had sensed him and released their energy in defense, Klaus felt nothing from their attacks. Their aura didn't even faze him.

Back in the Sunlight Forest, he had barely escaped death when a Tier 2 monster locked him down. But now, facing Tier 3 monsters, he was completely unchallenged. He felt as though he was gliding effortlessly through the battlefield, moving from one kill to the next like a fish in water.

Not satisfied with the easy victories, Klaus pressed on, making his way deeper into Ruin City in search of something more worthy of his growing strength.

Roar!

The ground beneath Klaus shook as a deep, thunderous roar echoed through the broken-down city. It came from a few kilometers away. Without hesitation, Klaus sprinted toward the source. After a few swift steps, he arrived at a small clearing where an intense battle was already underway.

"They're fighting," Klaus muttered to himself, taking in the chaotic scene. Three large monsters were locked in combat for reasons he couldn't discern.

The first was a Dark Fur Mountain Wolf, known for its incredible agility and strength. Its dark, sleek fur rippled as it danced around the battlefield. Opposing the wolf was a Red-Eye Leopard, its glowing eyes dangerous to even glance at.

From his watch, Klaus recalled that the Red-Eye Leopard possessed terrifying hypnotic powers —looking directly into its eyes would plunge a person's mind into chaos, making them vulnerable to attack.

But what truly caught Klaus's attention was the third monster—a Diamond Tusk Elephant. Its massive body towered over the others, but it wasn't its size that made Klaus's heart race. No, it was the monster's tusks. Diamond Tusk Elephants themselves were often considered worthless despite their size, but their tusks were a rare treasure. Owning even one could fetch an impressive sum on the market.

Klaus's eyes gleamed with excitement as he surveyed the scene. "What a perfect opportunity," he thought. The Mountain Wolf's meat was highly prized, something that people would go wild for.

The Leopard's value was decent and even more enticing was the fact that it was a Tier 3 Dark Monster—killing it would not only add to his ranking points but also provide him with a body he could sell for more money.

"Let's see the power of Star Qi," Klaus muttered to himself, channeling a small portion of his star energy into his sword. The moment the energy flowed into the blade, it began to hum with life, vibrating with raw power. A golden aura enveloped the sword, instantly amplifying its strength.

"Fuck, this feels amazing," Klaus grinned, feeling invincible. His original plan was to ambush the monsters, but with the surge of power from his Star Qi, it became clear that they stood no chance against him.

Ice essence flowed from his body into the sword, freezing the ground around him in an instant. The sheer power left Klaus giddy with excitement. "Damn, this is great!" he exclaimed.

With a mischievous smirk, Klaus whispered, "Gentlemen, the Yama King says hi," and then lunged forward, slashing his sword at the Mountain Wolf. A dense crescent-shaped arc of blue ice, coated with golden energy, flew from his blade and struck the wolf. The attack sliced deep into the creature's skull, leaving a massive wound.

At the same moment, Klaus directed another arc of energy toward the Red-Eye Leopard. The strike was so precise and powerful that it cut the leopard cleanly in half before it could even react.

Finally, he turned his attention to the Diamond Tusk Elephant. A more potent ice arc shot from his sword, aimed at the creature's thick neck. Klaus had expected the beast to endure the attack, perhaps even retaliate, but to his surprise, the moment the energy connected, the massive elephant collapsed to the ground with a resounding thud.

Dead, just like that.

Klaus stared at the fallen monsters in disbelief. "Wow, that was... almost too easy," he murmured, his heart pounding with exhilaration.

"Although they are Tier Dark Monsters, I expected some resistance" Klaus only used a small portion of the energy he could channel, yet the monsters were overwhelmed, killing each with a single attack.

"Since that is the case, then I better use this time to level up and see whether or not, this City can contain us" Klaus arrogantly said storing the bodies of the monsters. He disappeared further into the City. What followed was howls, roars, and thuds. Klaus has finally found his groove and started his slaughter.

After about 2 hours, Klaus stopped and sat on top of a broken wall. he pulled the system message.

[You have leveled up. Current Level: Level 2 Ascended. You have received 300 Stat points.]

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