THE LAST PARAGON IN THE APOCALYPSEC92: Beheading
Immediately after walking through the mirror door, Klaus stood in a wide green field. In front of him stood a hundred Tier 5 zombies, all of them Zombie Captains. Klaus was surprised by this unexpected sight.
"Well, this is a surprise," Klaus muttered, narrowing his eyes. His first encounter with Zombie Captains had been at Tier 3. The second time, they were at Tier 4. Now, he was facing Tier 5. Clearly, there was a lot more for him to learn about zombies.
The Zombie Kingdom was vast, filled with all kinds of zombies. The ones in front of him were just the ordinary type. Klaus had already encountered white zombies and even a mutated one before.
These ordinary zombies weren't the real threat—he hadn't yet faced the true horrors of the undead. But Klaus wasn't afraid, not in the slightest. In fact, he was eager for a quick fight.
Klaus had trust issues, especially with the Oracle system. Although he could update his status with his undistributed points, he didn't trust Oracle enough to do it on the inside. He knew that opening his status could alert the owners of Oracle. So, before entering, he distributed his points to his attributes.
He added 300 points each to Strength, Agility, Defense, and Stamina. He added 200 to Intelligence and 500 to Health, using up all his saved points. Now, he was several times stronger than before.
As he gazed at the approaching zombies, all hundred of them charging toward him, Klaus smiled slightly, considering how to handle them. In his previous trials, he had used his ice element to deal with monsters. Now, he was deciding whether to continue with the same approach or try something different.
"That would definitely look good on my resume," Klaus muttered, narrowing his eyes at the advancing horde. He smirked and then dashed forward, closing the distance between himself and the zombies in an instant.
His sword swung forward, and a head flew into the air. The first zombie was beheaded, its body dissipating into sparks of illusion-like runes. Klaus didn't stop there. He moved swiftly, ducking under a bone sword before beheading the second zombie.
"I'll take my time and perfect this move," Klaus thought to himself. He just realized he could use the trial to create a technique. A rather peculiar one but a fun one, kinda. He loves the idea of beheading, so he wants to create a technique called Beheading.
While others fought desperately to be among the first two hundred within the ten-minute mark, Klaus is using the time to refine a technique he planned to master to the highest level. The technique was simple: Beheading. It involved ignoring all defenses to deliver a fatal blow by decapitating the opponent.
Klaus moved swiftly between the zombies, his sword cutting through the air with precision. Each swing was controlled and calculated. Another head flew off, vanishing into glowing sparks. He felt the satisfaction of the strike but knew he could do better. His movements needed to be faster and smoother.
"Not quite there yet," Klaus muttered as he sidestepped a zombie's heavy strike, the bone sword barely missing him. He countered with a swift slash, beheading the creature cleanly.
He moved on to the next zombie without pause. His goal wasn't just to kill them—it was to perfect his technique. He wanted his beheading strikes to be flawless, with no wasted energy and no hesitation. The zombies were just tools for his training, and he would use every moment to sharpen his skill.
Klaus ducked under another attack, pivoted on his heel, and swung his sword. His blade met resistance for a brief second before slicing cleanly through the zombie's neck. The head rolled to the ground before turning into sparks.
"Closer," he murmured. He could feel it—each strike was becoming more natural, more efficient. But he wasn't there yet. He wanted to reach the point where beheading was second nature, as easy as breathing.
Another zombie lunged at him, but Klaus didn't even flinch. He stepped aside and, in one smooth motion, decapitated it. He barely had to think about it anymore. His body was beginning to move on its own, following the rhythm of the fight.
"Getting better," he said with a small smile. He could feel the technique becoming more ingrained in his movements. His strikes were faster, his aim more precise. Every swing of his sword felt more natural, more powerful.
-
-
Outside the trial, the War Goddess and the others stared at the screen in disbelief. What was Klaus doing? The white-haired youngster seemed unfazed as he moved through the horde of zombies. While his fellow participants on other screens were washing out one after another, Klaus continued beheading the Tier 5 zombies as if they were nothing more than stationary targets.
No one could keep up with him. Even Klaus himself felt a hint of regret for using all his points before entering the trial. He hadn't even tapped into half of his true strength, yet he was cutting through Tier 5 zombies like they were mere insects.
"How is this possible? Just how?" someone asked, unable to contain their astonishment.
"It's like he's not even aware of the zombies around him," the lady who made the earlier announcement murmured, still trying to grasp what was unfolding before her eyes.
"Why should he be?" the War Goddess said with a cool, indifferent tone. "In the face of absolute strength, all strategies become useless." Unlike the others, who were stunned by the display, she wore a small, proud smile.
More zombies came at him, but Klaus was in his element now. His sword moved almost on instinct, cutting through the air and meeting its target each time. Heads flew, and the zombies fell. He was no longer just practicing—he was mastering.
Klaus ducked low, spinning as he swept his sword across another zombie's neck. The head flew off, and he was already moving to the next one before the sparks faded. Each strike was perfect, each motion fluid.
"I can feel it now; the beheading is becoming more refined now," Klaus said, his voice low but confident. He was beginning to feel the true mastery of the technique. He was feeling it. He has already killed dozens so his understanding is expanding now.
He dodged another attack effortlessly, his sword cutting cleanly through another neck. The zombie fell, disappearing into runes, and Klaus didn't miss a beat as he turned to face the next one.
The more zombies he fought, the more his technique improved. He had to adjust to their varying movements and attacks, but he refined his beheading strike a little more each time he did. He was learning from every battle, every swing of his sword.
"It will take some time to master it, but I will make it happen," Klaus said under his breath, slicing through another zombie. His focus was absolute now. He didn't care about the time or the number of zombies left. His only goal was to perfect this technique.
As another zombie came at him, Klaus didn't hesitate. His sword flashed, and the zombie's head was immediately separated from its body.
With each kill, Klaus felt his mastery growing. His movements became faster, smoother, deadlier. He didn't need to think about his strikes anymore—they came naturally. He was finally reaching the level he wanted.
By the time he had cut down the last zombie, Klaus felt a deep sense of satisfaction. Although he can't say the beheading skill is near perfect mastery, he can tell it's improving by the second.
The Zombies stood no chance against his beheading skill, which he was eagerly sharpening.
"Four minutes, thirty seconds, huh?" Klaus murmured, gripping his sword as he surveyed the empty space where the zombies had once been. He had cleared the fifth wave faster than he'd expected.
"I still need a lot more refinement to master this skill truly," he said, reflecting on his technique. "Once that's done, I can start improving it." While over 500 people had already washed out falling to the Zombie Captains, Klaus stood there calmly, analyzing his progress.
"If I get the chance, I'll give the creators of this world some pointers on its flaws," Klaus thought, noting certain limitations in the trials. He knew that the outcome could have been very different if these trials had been held in the real world. But then again, these limitations worked in his favor.
He knew that only the smart ones would realize this was a virtual world. In reality, things wouldn't be this straightforward. The unpredictability of a real battle could change everything. Yet here, in this controlled environment, Klaus was thriving, using the very flaws of the world to sharpen himself further.
"Not that I'm complaining," he smirked, confident that this was all just a stepping stone to something greater.
After ten minutes, 330 people had advanced to the next wave. Klaus remained in first place, with Anna following closely in second. What shocked everyone was how Anna had unleashed a different side of herself during the fourth wave—a side that commanded great respect. It became clear she had been holding back, waiting for the right moment to reveal her true strength.
She wasn't the only one. Others had also demonstrated remarkable skill during that wave, pushing themselves to their limits. But despite their efforts, over 200 participants still remained, and the trial was far from over.
When the fifth wave arrived, the sight of it made many shudder in fear. Three hundred Tier 5 White Zombie Captains appeared before them, their imposing presence sending a chill through the ranks.
But while others trembled, Klaus was elated. 'Hehe, Tier 5 White Zombie Captains, and there are 300 of them,' he thought, a grin spreading across his face. This was exactly what he had been waiting for. To him, this was no threat—it was an opportunity. He was on cloud nine, ready to push his beheading skill to the next level.
REMOVE ADS FROM $1
Report chapter CommentsContact - ToS
THE LAST PARAGON IN THE APOCALYPSEC93: The Art Of Beheading
On one side of the battle in the virtual world, Anna stood before a horde of zombies, each towering over her with their imposing height and twisted features. Oddly enough, some of them were almost handsome for zombies, though their fiery red eyes and evil gleam ruined the effect.
Anna remained still, gripping her staff, her expression calm and composed—contrary to what anyone might have expected in such a dire situation. She wasn't rattled; she was calculating. The white zombies were known for their unnatural speed and ferocity, but she held her ground, refusing to show any weakness.
'They're coming,' she thought, gripping her staff more tightly. She watched the white zombies close in, her icy composure unwavering. As a mage with water and ice elements at her command, she had learned to adopt a chilling calm in the face of danger.
She wasn't like her sister, Lucy, who instead of water has the wood element. Lucy had both ice and wood and with her abilities, she could easily trap zombies in vines and subdue them with ice before they even got close. Her control over the battlefield was immense.
But Anna was different. She had water and ice—an element of control and one of offense. While wood was also an excellent control element with powerful offensive capabilities, Anna's water element offered more subtle control. She could manipulate the flow of battle, but her offensive power came from her ice. This required careful timing, which is why she waited for the right moment to strike.
As the zombies got within 400 meters of her, Anna raised her staff and began to chant her spell.
"Water, earth—soil uprising, water mixing."
The ground within a 700-meter radius around her began to shift and soften. The once-hard earth was now turning into squishy, unstable mud. The advancing zombies felt their movements slow, their feet sinking into the soft ground.
Because they are monsters that thrive on speed, getting the ground all soft and muddy was the perfect counter. Unless, of course, they could fly, which unfortunately in this situation -no.
Anna smiled slightly. The trap was set.
As the ground softened, the white zombies stumbled. Their quick advance was halted, their speed useless against the earth turning to sludge beneath them. Anna watched carefully, her eyes focused. She had them exactly where she wanted them.
One zombie, taller than the others, snarled and tried to push forward. It took a heavy step, but its foot sank deep into the mud. It struggled, pulling hard to free itself, but the more it moved, the deeper it sank.
Anna waved her staff again. "Ice chain," she whispered.
Immediately, the mud around the zombie hardened into thick ice, locking it in place. The zombie roared in frustration, but there was no escaping now.
Other zombies saw what had happened and hesitated. But they had no choice; the ground was shifting everywhere. They couldn't retreat. Anna took a deep breath, feeling the flow of her magic coursing through her body. She was in control. She liked that feeling.
Another zombie charged at her, using sheer force to break through the mud. Anna narrowed her eyes. She lifted her staff, and a spike of ice shot from the ground, piercing the zombie through its chest. It froze in place, still trying to push forward, but its movements slowed as the ice spread through its body.
Anna moved quickly. She wasn't going to let them overwhelm her. She raised her staff again and called upon more ice. This time, sharp icicles burst from the ground in rapid succession, stabbing through the legs of several zombies and stopping them in their tracks.
They were stuck. They were vulnerable. And Anna was ready to finish them off.
She took a step forward, confident now. Her control over the battlefield was absolute. She spun her staff in a quick motion and created a wave of freezing water that crashed into the zombies. The water clung to them, turning to ice, freezing their movements even more.
One by one, they froze completely. Statues of ice scattered across the field. Anna's lips curled into a slight smile. She wasn't done yet.
With a swift motion, she shattered the ice with a burst of magic, breaking the frozen zombies into pieces. Their bodies crumbled into nothing, leaving only shards of ice behind.
The few remaining zombies struggled desperately, trying to break free from the icy prison. Anna watched them for a moment. She could feel the exhaustion creeping into her limbs, but she couldn't stop. Not yet.
She raised her staff one last time. "Blizzard," she whispered.
A cold wind whipped across the field. Snow and ice swirled in the air, gathering speed as they circled around her. The storm grew stronger, encasing the remaining zombies in a violent whirlwind of freezing cold.
Anna closed her eyes for a second, feeling the power of the blizzard surrounding her. When she opened them again, she saw the last of the zombies frozen solid, encased in thick ice. She breathed out slowly, her breath visible in the cold air.
She lowered her staff, satisfied. The field was silent now. Nothing but frozen statues remained. Shortly, they dissipated, indicating that she had won. However, exhaustion could be seen on her face -she is beyond exhausted.
Inside the room, the observers were left speechless. No one had expected this. Anna hadn't just won—she had annihilated the zombies with absolute precision and control.
Everyone thought she would struggle, but to their surprise, she Annihilated the Zombies in under three minutes. That is just too much for someone who isn't Klaus.
"She is great. With her control and the way she commanded the battlefield, she is a natural-born leader, One that can control the flow of battle" one of the onlookers said with admiration. "She's even better than her sister in this aspect."
"True," another agreed. "Such control comes naturally to water cultivators, but hers is impeccable."
The War Goddess, who had been watching Anna's performance, smiled slightly. Then her smile grew wider as she shifted her gaze from Klaus to Anna and back again. "Perfect," she muttered softly, a hint of satisfaction in her voice.
But the announcement lady looked more concerned. "She won't be able to hold on for long, though," she said with a thoughtful expression. "Her essence is thinning—she needs to recover." Despite her words, she couldn't hide the admiration on her face as she gazed at Anna.
The pride and respect from everyone watching were palpable as they realized Anna wasn't just a powerful force but a strategic mind with unmatched control over her dual elements.
-
-
-
Klaus stood confidently before the three hundred white zombies, his mocking smile widening. "Gentlemen, shall we dance?" he said with a grin, disappearing from his position and reappearing behind one of the zombies.
"It's all in the control of the wrist," Klaus murmured as his sword sliced cleanly through the zombie's neck. The head flew through the air, disintegrating into sparks. He noticed another crucial aspect of his new technique—The Art of Beheading. Each swing needed precision and control. It wasn't just about power; it was about perfect execution.
He had a clear goal: to refine this skill to its highest potential before trying it out in the real world. Klaus knew that once it was perfected, the technique would be registered and integrated into the system which would make it easy to track his progress.
Thanks to the insights he gained from Ohema through their constant video calls, Klaus understood how skills and techniques could be recorded. Ohema had shown him how to go about registering a technique, explaining that the more refined it was during its first trial, the better it would be ranked.
Though he had already registered a technique by coincidence, this time, Klaus felt more in tune with the process. He wasn't relying on luck; he was methodically working on mastering every aspect of his new technique.
The idea of beheading had become his latest obsession. Klaus took it seriously, dedicating himself to perfecting every movement. He was using Oracle as a training ground, a place where he could refine his technique without any real consequences. Once perfected, he planned to register it in the system.
Klaus darted around the battlefield, his sword slicing through the air. Every movement was smooth and deliberate. Everywhere he passed, Zombie's head flew into the air turning into sparkles.
The key to the technique, Klaus realized, was controlling the flow of his power. Too much, and the strike would be sloppy. Too little, and it wouldn't be effective. Finding that balance was what he was working on now. With each head he removed, he felt himself growing more adept at controlling his strength.
One after another, the white zombies fell. Klaus's sword became a blur of motion as he moved fluidly between them, beheading them effortlessly. His wrist flicked with precision, and every strike landed perfectly. He wasn't wasting any energy.
The battlefield was littered with sparks from the defeated zombies, but Klaus was just getting started. His speed increased, and so did the intensity of his strikes. The white zombies were no match for him now. They fell one by one, unable to keep up with his relentless assault.
Within three minutes, the last Zombie was beheaded, but Klaus still didn't feel like his Beheading Technique had reached the level he craved. He needed more.
However, he wouldn't be getting the chance. That's because the fifth wave has finally separated the true 200 geniuses. This means the trial is over, and everyone will be ejected.
The Announcement lady was about to eject the remaining 200 when her phone rang.
"Yes, Ma'am," She replied.
"The trial continues...for him," She said, pointing at Klaus.
REMOVE ADS FROM $1
Report chapter CommentsContact - ToS
THE LAST PARAGON IN THE APOCALYPSEC94: A Growing Threat
"The trial continues... for him," the announcement lady said, pointing at Klaus. The room fell silent. Everyone knew that once the 200 candidates had been selected after the fifth wave, the trial was supposed to end. So why was Klaus being allowed to continue?
A young man, confused, asked, "Ma'am, the 200 people have already been selected after the fifth wave. Why is he allowed to continue?"
"I don't know. I just received an order from the higher-ups to let him continue. Also, make the footage live for the public," the announcement lady responded.
The room buzzed with murmurs. Everyone, except the war goddess, looked astonished.
"It's an order," the announcement lady said firmly. "There's no need to ask any further. Get to it."
Just as the staff was about to carry out the orders, the war goddess spoke up. "Don't pull out the girl too."
The announcer lady looked surprised. "War goddess, the order was only for Klaus to stay in the trial."
"If you don't want to damage that young lady's self-esteem, then let her continue as well. The worst that can happen is she dies in the virtual world, but she will wake up fine in the real world," the war goddess replied indifferently.
"But..." the young man started.
"No buts," the war goddess interrupted. "That young lady needs this. Don't delay; go ahead and do it. I will take responsibility for this."
The announcement lady hesitated but then nodded. "Understood. I'll make the necessary arrangements."
The room quieted down again as the staff began implementing the new orders.
The war goddess watched the screens with a thoughtful expression. She had her reasons for wanting Anna to continue.
While everyone was focused on Anna's amazing control over the battlefield, she noticed something that made her decide to let Anna stay in the trial.
Anna was putting in her best effort solely to impress Klaus. The war goddess, who had earned her title through skill and experience, saw this and understood the significance. She knew that pulling Anna out would be a huge blow to her confidence, so she decided to let her continue.
It wasn't just Anna who was trying to impress Klaus. Back in Felin City, Lily, who had emerged as the top competitor in the trial, was also continuing. The war goddess had given the order to ensure that both women kept their confidence.
Just like Anna, who showed remarkable skill during the fifth wave, Lily demonstrated her impressive swordsmanship, leaving everyone in awe. Both women were doing everything they could to impress Klaus, who was completely unaware of their motives.
In reality, Klaus had no idea what was happening, even if it was happening right in front of him. His relationship with Lucy had worked out because of the circumstances they were in. When it came to picking up on signals, Klaus was still quite inexperienced or more like too shameless to pick on genuine emotions.
But that is where his handsomeness comes in. With his good looks, he doesn't have to do anything. The ladies will do all the work. All he had to do was keep showing how amazing he was, and that's precisely what is going on now.
-
-
-
Inside the virtual world, Klaus was transported to a different part of the battlefield, where he faced 300 Tier 5 Zombie Generals. From Zombie Captains to Generals, that is an upgrade.
He had expected this, knowing that no trial would require an Ascended to fight monsters four realms above them. But this is a special case and Klais was more than happy to get things done. Just like that, he started another massacre with heads flying into the air almost instantly.
Although Klaus's speed stats might not be high, he possessed the strength and agility for quick reflexes. He could execute a series of movements effortlessly without worrying about being sneaked up on.
It took Klaus just three minutes to dispose of all 300 Zombie Generals. As he had anticipated, the next wave consisted of Tier 5 White Zombie Generals.
At this point, screens worldwide began showing Klaus's trial. When Klaus appeared on the screens, everyone knew a thrilling show was about to begin. Originally, the plan was to release the videos after the trial, but due to Klaus's impressive performance, an order was given to broadcast it live.
Nobody initially understood why, but it became clear almost immediately when viewers saw Klaus in action against the zombies.
Those who had failed and felt dejected realized their own shortcomings. Meanwhile, those who had learned from their mistakes began observing Klaus's techniques, planning to improve and overcome their failures rather than letting them overwhelm them.
Klaus's performance was inspiring. The higher-ups had hoped for this effect: seeing an Ascended battle monster's four realms above him motivated everyone to work harder to achieve similar feats.
Anna managed to defeat the Tier 5 Zombie Generals, but when the White Zombies Gnerals arrived, she was exhausted and was ultimately defeated. Despite this, she earned some recognition. The same was true for Lily, Kay, Daniel, Danny, Kilian, and Mark, who all performed well.
It was well-known that they were friends with Klaus, so seeing their names at the top of the rankings was no surprise.
---
In a luxurious room, five powerful individuals sat behind a screen, watching Klaus effortlessly behead zombie after zombie without even breaking a sweat.
"He's a monster," one of them said.
"Is he even human?" another person asked. "How can an Ascended be this strong? Even the Legacy's heirs pale in comparison."
The others nodded in agreement, their expressions a mix of shock and admiration.
The fifth person, who had been quiet until now, spoke up. "Do you think he could be a future threat? Or someone we should recruit?"
The others exchanged glances. "He's a wildcard," said the first person. "His potential is huge, but we don't know his loyalties or intentions."
Another person sighed. "We'll have to keep a close eye on him. A talent like his could shift the balance of power."
"Well, we should be careful," the first person said. "I've heard that he's caught the attention of that arrogant war goddess. I hope I don't need to tell you how unreasonable she can be. We might get into trouble if she senses anything suspicious."
"That would indeed be troublesome," another person agreed. "Her influence is vast, and her temper is well-known."
The group exchanged concerned looks. The war goddess was not someone to be underestimated. Her reputation for being unpredictable and fierce was well-earned.
"We need to tread carefully," the third person said. "If she gets involved, it could complicate matters significantly."
"Then what should we do?" the second person asked, frustration evident in their voice. "The Five Great Clans can't let someone like him wander around unchecked. Although he's just a kid now, if we allow him to roam free, his arrogance will only grow. It will become a major headache."
Another person nodded. "He's already started targeting young heirs. We can only imagine what will come next if we don't address this soon."
The room fell silent as the weight of the situation sank in. Klaus is like a wildcard, one they saw no way to control.
"The Five Great Clans have always maintained a balance," the first person said. "If we let him continue unchecked, it could upset the entire order. We need to act before it escalates further."
The third person sighed. "But directly intervening could make things worse. We need to be strategic about this."
The fourth person agreed. "We should find a way to limit his impact without drawing too much attention. Perhaps we can influence his environment subtly."
"You mean targeting his friends," one of them suggested. "They're all from Great Families. Although we have some influence over them, antagonizing them might not be the best move in this situation."
The room fell silent as they considered the idea. These five people were the leaders of the Five Great Clans. When the world turned apocalyptic, and the old government dissolved and powerful individuals, carved out their own territories.
The continent was unified by the Legacy Families, who led the current world order. The Great Families, on the other hand, had established their own cities within the continents.
But beyond these two groups, there are five clans. These clans had been influential even before the apocalypse and had significant power. Their influence was so vast that even the Great Families and the Legacy Families would be cautious about provoking them.
For these leaders to consider going after Klaus in such a way was indeed a serious matter.
"We need to approach this carefully," the first person said. "Targeting his friends could have far-reaching consequences. It might provoke a backlash from the Great Families."
Another person nodded. "True. But if we do nothing, we risk letting Klaus's arrogance grow unchecked. He's already causing trouble by targeting young heirs."
They continued to watch as Klaus beheaded Zombie General after Zombie General. Deep down, they were wary of him. His explosive growth was too shocking; it made them feel threatened, and they had every reason to.
Klaus was a paragon, someone with limitless potential—except that the heavens seemed intent on eliminating him before he fully matured.
But if he did manage to grow, their positions would be in serious jeopardy. They had to handle him carefully but discreetly.
Little did they know, they weren't the only ones looking to kill Klaus. All around the world, powerful individuals were searching for ways to suppress him. If he was allowed to grow unchecked, his arrogance could become uncontrollable.
But their major mistake was letting Klaus enter the Oracle. While everyone was plotting his downfall, Klaus cleared the trials to the point where even a thousand Tier 5 Zombies weren't enough to stop him.
After about the 13th wave, Tier 6 Zombies appeared. Contrary to what anyone expected, Klaus took them on and defeated them within 5 minutes, setting a record as the only Ascended to battle and kill multiple Tier 6 monsters.
This scene exploded on the internet, shocking everyone, including the higher-ups at Celestial Mountain Academy, who quickly ordered the trial to end.
REMOVE ADS FROM $1
Report chapter CommentsContact - ToS
THE LAST PARAGON IN THE APOCALYPSEC95: A Humble Klaus
Immediately after Klaus beheaded the 50 Tier 6 Zombies, the scene vanished, and he was ejected from the Oracle. The display had been too shocking. The original plan was to use his overwhelming strength and combat skills to inspire the young elite and temper the wills of true warriors.
That strategy worked for a while—until Klaus started making them feel uneasy. The higher-ups, watching how effortlessly he was killing the monsters, began to wonder if they had gone too far. What was meant to build confidence was now planting seeds of doubt and fear in the hearts of the young warriors.
Killing the Tier 5 Zombies was impressive but manageable. They had expected Klaus to fall once the Tier 6 Zombies appeared. But, to their surprise, Klaus didn't even flinch. He remained completely focused on perfecting the technique he was developing.
After he cut down 50 Tier 6 Zombies, they realized he hadn't reached his limit yet. They considered increasing the number of monsters to overwhelm him, hoping that pushing him to his breaking point would allow them to control the narrative.
Headlines could then read:
"Even the Strong Have Their Limits"
"Klaus, the Young Prodigy, Battles Tier 6 Zombies Before Falling"
"The Rise and Fall of a Genius: Klaus Pushes Beyond His Limits"
"Unstoppable Until the End: Klaus Falls After Facing Impossible Odds"
"The Ascended Warrior Who Faced the Impossible, but Couldn't Hold On"
It would have been the perfect opportunity to teach the young elites a valuable lesson, but Klaus didn't follow their plans. His goal was to perfect his beheading technique before he faced an impossible challenge.
Had they allowed him to continue, they would have made the biggest mistake of their lives. Inside the Oracle, the monsters didn't have the same willpower as those in the real world. They lacked the fierce determination and unpredictable berserk tendencies that could activate at any moment. Those vital traits simply weren't present.
Because of this, the true strength of the monsters inside the Oracle was only about 60-70% of what they would be in the outside world. If they had let Klaus continue, perhaps only a Tier 6 Terror would have stood a chance of overwhelming him. But even then, that's assuming he used his sword without tapping into his elemental powers—or if he chose not to unleash his Lotus Bloom skill.
Waking up in the chair, Klaus removed the helmet and stared at the wall. "Damn it, I was this close to perfecting that move," he muttered, frowning.
He had reached a critical moment—learning to ignore defense to behead his target. It was the most important part of the skill, and he had just begun to grasp it when he was ejected.
"If only I had one more chance to fight them," Klaus clenched his fist, gritting his teeth as he glared at the Oracle helmet in frustration.
Klaus stood up from the chair, still fuming. The frustration of being so close gnawed at him. He paced back and forth for a moment, trying to calm the storm brewing inside.
"One more fight… that's all I needed," he whispered under his breath.
His mind raced with thoughts of what could have been. The move he was working on wasn't just another technique—it was the key to reaching a whole new level of mastery. He knew that once perfected, it would give him the edge he needed against stronger opponents. But now, that progress was cut short.
He stopped pacing and took a deep breath. "I can't let this hold me back," he said firmly. "If I want to perfect it, I'll just have to do it in the real world."
His frown faded, replaced with determination. Klaus picked up the helmet again, inspecting it. The Oracle had its limits, but it had pushed him farther than he'd expected. Now, he was ready to take on real challenges outside of simulations.
"It's time to test myself out there," he said, placing the helmet down. His eyes gleamed with anticipation. "I need a real fight."
The moment Klaus stepped out of his room, he found himself back in the large hall filled with only 199 disciples. These were the ones who had made it to the top 200, the elite among them. As soon as he appeared, all eyes were on him.
Klaus, still irritated by his interrupted fight, glanced around with an indifferent expression, though his mind was elsewhere. His gaze lingered on their neatly polished necks, something about them drawing his attention more than usual.
'What the hell… this technique is messing with me,' Klaus thought, realizing with a shock that for a brief moment, he had the urge to slice through their necks. It wasn't bloodlust, just a result of hours spent focusing on perfecting the deadly skill. The desire to execute that technique was lingering, almost reflexively.
He shook his head subtly, clearing his thoughts. "Focus," he whispered to himself, reminding himself that this wasn't a battlefield.
"Klaus, over here!" Anna called out, her voice cutting through the low hum of chatter. She was surrounded by a group of guys whose smirks and predatory stares made it clear they weren't just interested in small talk.
'Bloodthirsty, horny bastards,' Klaus thought in his usual sarcastic tone. Even though Anna had placed second in the Top 200 selections, making her one of the strongest, it only seemed to make things worse. Her new status had drawn even more unwanted attention, and now she was in a tricky spot.
Klaus sighed, his earlier irritation fading as he started walking toward her. "Being beautiful is a disease", he muttered under his breath, though a small smirk tugged at his lips. He couldn't help but feel a bit amused by the whole situation.
Death stares, gritted teeth, and angry glares followed Klaus as he moved through the crowd. He looked like an elf straight out of a painting. His white hair flowed down his back, and his golden eyes shone brighter than ever. Nadia had also made sure his wardrobe was top-tier.
He wore black trousers and a violet shirt with intricate embroidery, the outfit topped off by a sleek pair of LandMax shoes that matched perfectly. He looked more like a model on a runway than a boy walking among his peers.
He was simply too handsome, and the other boys weren't having it. But Klaus didn't tell them to be ugly—Lol. He walked past them without a care and stopped beside Anna. Ignoring the bitter stares, he casually wrapped his arm around her shoulders, pulling her close.
"Are you okay?" he whispered, his voice soft but loud enough for the onlookers to hear.
Anna's face flushed slightly as Klaus pulled her in, but she quickly composed herself. The tension in the hall grew thicker as the other disciples watched in stunned silence. Some of the guys clenched their fists in frustration, their jealousy palpable.
Anna nodded, smiling up at Klaus with a grateful look in her eyes. "I'm fine, thanks to you," she said softly, though there was a hint of relief in her voice. The bloodthirsty glances she'd been dealing with moments ago seemed to vanish the second Klaus arrived. His presence alone was enough to silence any unwelcome attention.
Klaus gave her a small smile, though his eyes darted to the crowd for a moment, catching the glares aimed at him. He could feel the hostility, but he shrugged it off, unfazed.
"Good," Klaus said, still keeping his arm around her as they stood together. "Let's get out of here."
They walked to a quieter corner of the hall, away from the clamor of the remaining disciples. When they reached a secluded spot, Klaus finally let go of Anna's shoulders but continued to hold her hand. He turned to her with a genuine smile.
"You were amazing, Anna," Klaus said, his eyes meeting hers as he glanced at the projection of the rankings. "I knew you'd give me a run for my money."
The display showed the top performers, and despite Klaus's staggering points, Anna's score also stood out. The gap between her and the third-place contestant was significant, a clear sign that she had performed exceptionally well.
Anna's smile widened, a mix of pride and relief in her eyes. "Thanks, Klaus. I've been working hard, and it feels good to see it pay off." Although she tried her best to look natural, the pink flush on her cheeks sold her away.
'She is blushing,' Klaus thought.
'What is with ladies and blushing?' Klaus has already experienced many blushes; he even made Ohema, the mysterious Ohema, blush in their last conversation, ending the call before they could continue.
So he knew it was a trait in ladies. But seeing Anna that way made his heart jump a bit. 'She is so cute,' He said inwardly, but then the face of another moon goddess with silver hair appeared in his mind, clearing that thought away.
Klaus nodded, squeezing her hand gently. "You deserve it. You've got skills and determination. It's impressive."
As they stood there, absorbed in their own conversation, the noise of the hall seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of them in their own moment. Suddenly, a section of the hall creaked open, and five figures emerged. Klaus and Anna were jolted from their thoughts.
"It's her," Anna said, her eyes widening as she saw the last person enter the hall.
"Big Sister," Klaus said, recognizing the War Goddess as she walked in. She smiled warmly when she saw Klaus and Anna.
"Little brother, you are indeed something," the War Goddess said, her eyes twinkling with approval. Klaus couldn't help but smile at her words.
"I don't like to brag, Big Sister," Klaus replied with a grin. "After all, I'm a humble person. But I have to say, betting against me was probably the biggest mistake you ever made."
The War Goddess chuckled softly. "Oh really? I guess that's fair. You've certainly surprised everyone," she said, turning her attention to the others.
Klaus and Anna moved closer to join the group. The War Goddess's presence seemed to draw the attention of everyone in the hall, and a hush fell over the crowd as they awaited her words.
"Congratulations, everyone"
REMOVE ADS FROM $1
Report chapter CommentsContact - ToS
THE LAST PARAGON IN THE APOCALYPSEC96: Mountain Dew Essense
"Congratulations, everyone! You've all proven to be the best among the hundreds of thousands of candidates for this year's Celestial Mountain Academy City Selections. You should be proud of your achievement.
It's impossible to overcome many challenges and emerge victorious without feeling proud, so be proud. This is a rare accomplishment, and your success today will have a lasting impact." The war goddess said, making everyone smile with satisfaction.
Indeed, they had become the elite of the moment. There were 200 of them, each having faced impossible odds to secure their place. Who wouldn't be proud of that?
"But as much as I would like to say that all of you will make it to the Academy, reality is often harsh. In three months, you will compete against other top candidates from cities across the Eastern Region at Arcadian City.
Only a selected few will advance to the Union selection, but those who won't make it will not be forgotten. This time, the Academy will ensure you have a stable opportunity. Even if you don't progress to the next round, you will still receive benefits to help you continue your growth."
The war goddess continued, "The competition in Arcadian City will be tough. You'll face even stronger opponents and more challenging tests. But this is an opportunity to prove yourselves on a bigger stage.
Prepare well over the next three months. Train hard and refine your skills. Show everyone the strength and determination that got you this far.
For those who advance, great opportunities await. For those who don't, remember that this is just one step in your journey. The Academy's support will help you keep moving forward and grow stronger.
Keep your spirits high and stay focused. The future holds many possibilities for you all. Good luck to everyone." The War goddess ended her speech.
The Announcement Lady also started, "Now that we've celebrated your achievements let's talk about what comes next. Each of you will receive a special reward: Mountain Dew's Essence. This will help you advance to the Master stage faster."
She paused to let the news sink in, then continued, "Mountain Dew's Essence is a powerful substance. It enhances your energy and boosts your combat abilities. With this essence, your training will become more effective, and your progress will accelerate."
"Taking it will clean impurities from your system, making you more in tune with the flow of spiritual qi. This will allow you to harness even more energy to boost your attacks. Trust me, this is a rare treasure that only grows at the highest peak of Celestial Mountain."
Klaus and Anna exchanged glances and nodded at each other. Klaus had read extensively about Mountain Dew's Essence, and he knew its effects were remarkable. The essence could cleanse the body of impurities, enhancing one's ability to channel spiritual energy.
Klaus, despite his large pool of Star Qi, could only harness a maximum of 8%. This was more than sufficient for his battle prowess. However, if he could clear out more impurities, he would be able to channel even greater amounts of energy.
But Klaus didn't need the essence for himself. He already had a Celestial-grade body and cultivated the Star Diagram. His system automatically clears impurities every time he levels up. Using the essence would be a waste for him, but he kept that to himself.
One of the notable effects of Mountain Dew's Essence is its ability to help people regain or retain their youth. It works best on ladies and can significantly rejuvenate those who use it. Klaus wanted his mother to use it.
Unfortunately, his mother had awakened a weak class and talent, making it impossible for her to cultivate effectively. Even fighting Tier 1 monsters was a challenge for her. Klaus's father had tried to help her, but she was too weak and weakhearted to even kill subdued monsters and Zombies
They tried using monster cores to improve her abilities, but after reaching Level 5 Awakened, the cores had no effect. But despite her struggles, she never showed anger or sadness. She found happiness in being a good wife and mother.
When Klaus's father went missing, and they were forced out of their home, his mother saw how her weakness prevented her from supporting their family. It wasn't her fault; destiny had been cruel. Awakening with a cooking class and talent was not ideal for surviving in the apocalypse.
Klaus wanted to use the essence to help his mother regain her youth. Although she appeared to be in her 30s, the exhaustion of the past year had taken its toll. He wanted her to look as young and beautiful as she once did—the beauty that made him see her as the most beautiful woman in the world.
"Some of the effects of Mountain Dew's Essence include increased stamina and strength. It helps to heal minor injuries quickly and improves your focus during battles. It's a valuable aid for anyone looking to reach the next level."
The Announcement Lady smiled. "But that's not all. Along with the essence, you will also receive a training guide. This guide is designed to help you make the most of your time before the next competition. It includes advanced techniques and exercises to improve your skills."
"Each guide is personalized based on your performance. It will offer tips and strategies that suit your strengths and areas for improvement. Make sure to study it carefully and follow the advice."
She looked around the room, making eye contact with several candidates. "Remember, this is not just a chance to improve your abilities. It's also an opportunity to prepare yourself mentally. The trials ahead will test your resolve and character.
You will face even stronger and terrifying odds and opponents, but passing will mean you are one step closer to being an official disciple of the prestigious Celestial Mountain Academy."
"As you prepare, remember that success in the next stage will require more than just strength. It will need strategy, adaptability, and a strong will. Be prepared to face unexpected challenges."
She glanced at her notes and then said, "Finally, I want to remind you all to stay connected with your peers. Building alliances and learning from each other can be as valuable as individual training. Support one another and share your experiences."
"There will be workshops and seminars held over the next two months. These events will cover advanced combat techniques, team strategies, and personal development. Participation is optional but highly recommended."
"Keep an eye on the Academy's bulletin board for announcements about these events. They will provide additional resources and opportunities for growth."
"Good luck to every one of you. We look forward to seeing your continued progress and success. Remember, the Academy believes in your potential. Make the most of this opportunity."
She gave a final nod and stepped back.
"Through these doors, you will be sent to the inventory section. Use your Mountain Dew Essence to advance to the Master stage before the next Selection. Good luck, everyone," a young lady announced, directing everyone away.
"Little brother, come see me at Arcadian City when you have time," the war goddess said to Klaus as he moved toward the inventory.
"I sure will," Klaus replied.
"Good. And little sister, if you manage to come out in the top ten of the regional selection, I will pick you as my one and only disciple. Okay, you can go now." The war goddess vanished into thin air before she could see the shocked expressions on Anna's face.
The people around them were stunned. The war goddess, the strongest figure in the Eastern region, had just made an incredible offer to Anna. The news was so surprising that even the onlookers nearly tripped and fell.
"Well, congratulations, Anna! You'll need to work hard to win that offer. Big sister, picking you as a disciple would be a great opportunity," Klaus said, making Anna nod, her fist clenched.
They walked through the door and appeared on the other side. Soon, they received a parcel and made their way to the parking lot. Klaus knew things were about to change for him, but he wasn't worried. In fact, he was eager for the changes to come. After all, he still had heads to cut and a technique to master.
REMOVE ADS FROM $1
Report chapter CommentsContact - ToS
THE LAST PARAGON IN THE APOCALYPSEC97: Challenged by a Legacy [Bonus]
Just like that, two days passed since the city selection exams for Celestial Mountain Academy took place. The names of the 200 selected candidates were posted, with Klaus's name at the top. However, it wasn't just his selection that was causing a stir. The real buzz was about his performance during the trial.
The entire internet was abuzz, with people everywhere commenting on Klaus's incredible feats. His performance had sent shockwaves through the online community, and the discussions were filled with amazement and speculation.
In the days following the city selection exams, Klaus's performance became the talk of the town. News outlets, forums, and social media were flooded with discussions about him.
His ability to defeat so many monsters, especially the Tier 6 Zombies, amazed people. His speed and skill were unmatched, and videos of his battle were shared everywhere. People marveled at his strength and determination.
The media praised him as a prodigy and a rising star. Headlines such as "Klaus's Unbelievable Triumph" and "The New Legend of the Trials" were everywhere. His performance was described as a once-in-a-lifetime event.
Many saw Klaus as an inspiration. Young warriors and aspiring fighters looked up to him. They admired his dedication and hard work. Some even started training harder, hoping to achieve similar feats.
However, not everyone was pleased with Klaus's success. Some people felt threatened by his rapid rise. They worried that his strength might overshadow their own. There were whispers of jealousy and unease.
Certain influential figures were concerned. They feared that Klaus's growth could disrupt the balance of power. Discussions among the elite included how to handle such a formidable talent.
Just a day ago, news began circulating that Klaus had cheated during the selection trial. The rumors quickly spread, fueled by some who wanted to discredit him. It was clear to many that this was just a smear campaign orchestrated by those threatened by Klaus's rising fame.
The media houses behind the false reports were quick to spread the story. They claimed that Klaus had colluded with the creators of Oracle to manipulate the trials. The aim was to tarnish his reputation and undermine his achievements.
However, this backfired spectacularly. The Oracle creators responded firmly to these accusations. They clarified that there was no cheating involved and that Klaus had performed exceptionally within the rules. This revelation caused an uproar among the powerful figures who had supported the smear campaign.
The backlash was swift and severe. Many media houses that had spread the false information found themselves facing severe consequences. Some lost their licenses, while others faced heavy fines. The power of the Oracle creator's statement was undeniable.
The media houses that had been affected were in disarray. Desperate to recover their lost credibility, some even sought out Klaus, hoping he could help them regain their licenses. However, Klaus remained indifferent to their pleas and focused on his own priorities.
While the media drama unfolded, Klaus spent the past three days trying to convince his mother to use the Mountain Dew Essence. He was determined to see her benefit from it, despite her reluctance.
"Mom, I've already said I don't need this. It's of no use to me. My Talent and abilities don't have any affinity with this essence. I want you to have it," Klaus said earnestly.
His mother shook her head, still hesitant. "But you're the one who needs it more than I do. You're on a path that requires constant growth and improvement."
Klaus took her hands gently. "Mom, you've always been there for me. Now, I want to help you. The essence will restore your youth and help you regain some of what you've lost. It's important to me that you use it."
She looked at him, her eyes filled with a mix of love and concern. "You've already done so much for me. I don't want to take away from your future."
Klaus smiled reassuringly. "It's not taking away from me. It's about making sure you're okay. I need you to be healthy and happy. That's more important than anything else."
Reluctantly, she agreed to use the essence. Klaus was relieved and hopeful that it would improve her well-being. He knew that her happiness was essential to his own.
"Fine, but don't think I will always accept everything you give me. You now have a girlfriend; spend more on her. I am your mother, and she is your girlfriend; she can offer more than I can," his mother said with a slightly bashful smile.
"You..." Klaus choked on his words, then quickly recovered. "You're overthinking things. And well, Lucy rejected the essence before I even had the chance to offer it to her, so take that," Klaus teased, a grin spreading across his face.
His mother laughed softly, shaking her head. "You're impossible. Alright, if you're so insistent, I'll use the essence. Just promise me you'll take care of yourself too."
Klaus nodded, his expression serious now. "I promise. I'm focused on improving and getting stronger. And I'm doing all this because I want to make sure we have a better future."
His mother's eyes softened. "I know my love. And I'm proud of you. Just remember to take time for yourself, too. You work so hard."
"I will," Klaus assured her, giving her a warm hug. "And thanks for agreeing to use the essence. It means a lot to me."
"I look forward to seeing a more youthful mother. I promise not to tease you then," Klaus said before handing the parcel containing Mountain Dew to his mother. After leading her to the training room, he left, allowing her privacy.
Per the instruction given, one will have to remove most of their cloth before using it, giving way for the impurities to come out. After leaving, Klaus went to his room to call Ohema, who he had teased so intently the last time, into hanging up.
"Hello Suger Mommy," Klaus said immediately Ohema appeared on his phone screen.
Klaus smiled as he watched Ohema's reaction to his greeting. Her eyes widened slightly before she rolled them in playful exasperation.
"Hello, Klaus," she replied with a smirk. "I see you're still as charming as ever."
"Of course," Klaus said, leaning back in his chair. "I'm just checking in to see how things are going. Thought I'd call since I haven't heard from you in a while."
Ohema's expression softened. "Things have been busy but good. I heard about the chaos surrounding you. Are you handling everything alright?"
Klaus nodded. "Yeah, I'm managing. My mother's using Mountain Dew now, so I'm hoping that helps her. I'm just focusing on my training and making sure everything is on track."
"That's good to hear," Ohema said. "I know you've been through a lot recently. Just remember to take care of yourself too. You have a lot on your plate."
"You seem concerned about my health," Klaus said with a cheeky wink. "Just so happens, I'm having some body pains. Shouldn't you come and give me a massage?"
Ohema's face turned a deep shade of red. "Klaus, you're impossible. Don't tease me like that."
Klaus leaned closer to the camera, his grin widening. "Oh, come on. I'm just playing around. I thought maybe you'd like to help me out."
Ohema tried to maintain her stern look, but her blush deepened. "Really, Klaus? Is that the best you've got?"
"It's all in good fun," Klaus said, chuckling. "I just thought it would be nice to see you come over and take care of me. I'm sure you'd give a fantastic massage."
Ohema covered her face with her hand, clearly flustered. "You know, if you keep this up, I might have to get you back for all this teasing."
Klaus laughed. "I'll be looking forward to it. But seriously, it would be nice to have you around."
Ohema tried to regain her composure. "Well, if you keep making me blush like this, I might just have to come over and give you a proper spanking."
"Sounds like a plan," Klaus said with a wink. "I promise I'll be on my best behavior and best shorts."
Ohema shook her head, still blushing. "You're impossible, Klaus. But I guess I'll see you soon enough."
Klaus's teasing left Ohema with a bright red face and a smile she couldn't hide. "I've sent you a gift, and I'll tell your girlfriend you're flirting with other girls. Bye," Ohema said before ending the call, not wanting to let the charming young man get the best of her with just words.
Klaus smiled and lay down on his bed, planning to catch some sleep before his mother woke up. Just as he was about to drift off, his phone rang. The caller was none other than Danny of the Daniel brothers.
"Danny, what's up?" Klaus answered.
"Klaus, have you seen the news? The Devil Archer has challenged you to a duel. It's all over the headlines!" Danny said urgently.
"The Devil Archer? Who's that Clown?" Klaus asked with a frown.
"He's one of the three legacies in the Northern Union," Danny replied.
REMOVE ADS FROM $1
Report chapter CommentsContact - ToS
THE LAST PARAGON IN THE APOCALYPSEC98: If you are afraid of Death, don't challenge me [Bonus]
"Klaus, I, the Devil Archer, challenge you to a duel. If you have the gut, accept, and we will fight to see who is the best of the younger generation. I've heard you're decent, so don't disappoint me. If you dare to accept, we will duel in the Oracle." Klaus watched the video of a young man with a bow-shaped mark on his forehead, his face expressionless.
"Who is this clown?" Klaus asked.
"He calls himself the Devil Archer," Anna replied. "He's one of the three Legacies of the Northern Union's younger generation. His real name is Max Duncan. He's from the Duncan Legacy family, the rulers of the Northern Union."
When Danny called, he added the others to the video call. Now, Daniel, Lily, Kilian, Mark, Kay, Lucy, Nia, and Asha were all on the line. Klaus had just finished watching the challenge video and couldn't help but want to slap that arrogant fool.
"The Legacies?" Klaus asked.
"Yeah, there are eight of them," Lucy jumped in. "The Northern Legacy rules the Northern Union, led by the Duncan monarchy; the Vargas Dynasty rules the Southern Union; the Eastern Union by the Sheng Empire; and the Western Union by the Von Falkenrath Cult.
The Equatorial Union is ruled by the Kamara Dynasty, the Austral Union by the Koa Sovereignty, the Glacial Union by the Frostweaver Dynasty, and the Aqua Union by the Coralborn Dominion.
These Legacy families maintain order and protect the unions. When the apocalypse descended and governments fell apart, these families rose to restore law and order in a world that had been shattered by the sudden arrival of Spiritual Qi. Without them, Earth would have—"
"Uh, Lucy, dear," Klaus interrupted, "I love how smart you are, and I appreciate your knowledge, but can we stick to the current topic? You know, the Northern Union?"
Lucy blushed, realizing she had gone off on another tangent. As a bookworm, she tends to be more talkative about things like this. The others watched the immortal fairy blushing, and they couldn't help but give Klaus a thumbs up in their heart. Their boy has tied her down for good.
"The Northern Union... yes, let's get back to that," Lucy said. "In the Northern Union, there are three Legacies. They're like heirs, just like us. One of them is Ella Duncan. She's a mage, much like Anna, but her power makes her unique.
She awakened a terrifying version of the water element called Corrosive Annihilation Water.
She's calm and respectful, but make no mistake—she's extremely dangerous." Lucy paused and then continued.
"The second is Ethan, and he's even more dangerous. They say he killed a Tier 3 monster before he even awakened. He's highly skilled with the spear. From what little we know about him, he's very arrogant, and he has every right to be.
He awakened a lightning element talent, and his Spearman class lets him use lightning incredibly efficiently. He's truly terrifying. If possible, it's best to stay on his good side," Lucy said.
"Lucy dear, are you worried about my safety? How sweet. I knew you were that kind-hearted the moment I laid eyes on you," Klaus flirted, making Lucy blush deeply. The others watched with smiles on their faces.
"I'm serious, Klaus. Ethan is truly terrifying, and provoking him could be very dangerous for you," Lucy said, her concern clear on her face.
"Don't worry, my dear. I won't provoke him unless he comes after me. But hey, have some faith in your boyfriend. I'm no pushover, you know," Klaus said with a wink. "By the way, what's that clown's name again?"
"Max Duncan. He's also dangerous, and his name, Devil Archer, is well-earned. He awakened a bow class and a darkness element. But what makes him truly terrifying is his weapon. It's a soul weapon, which means it was awakened within his soul.
Soul weapons are special; you can create your own if you have the skill and enough spiritual Qi. But those who awaken automatically are usually prodigies with unmatched talent.
Max Duncan is one of those few. His bow is called Devil Slayer, which is where his name, Devil Archer, comes from. Like Ethan and Ella, he's extremely powerful and very arrogant," Lucy explained.
"So that's the situation, huh? Some fool wants to challenge me because he thinks he's powerful. Well, it sounds like he has a death wish," Klaus muttered.
"He's asking for the duel to take place in Oracle, so it would be a virtual death," Mark said.
"That's cowardly. It should be in the real world if he wants to challenge me. Let's see who will be left standing," Klaus said coldly.
"Oracle is a safe place for duels," Mark said. "It's designed to simulate real battles but without the risk of actual death. Max probably wants it this way to avoid serious injury."
Klaus shook his head. "I don't care. If he's so confident, he should fight in the real world. I want to see if he's as strong as he claims."
"So, are you going to accept his challenge?" Lucy asked, her concern evident.
"Probably. If I don't, he might use it to cause trouble for me and those I'm affiliated with," Klaus replied.
"You think he'll target Nucci Fashion Trend X?" Nia suddenly asked.
Klaus frowned, considering Nia's question. "It's possible. Max might use this as an opportunity to undermine me in any way he can. He could target Nucci Fashion Trend X to create more problems for me.
So rejecting his challenge is not an option."
Daniel nodded in agreement. "It's a smart move on his part if he's looking to cause trouble."
"Well, he thinks he's invincible now, but I'll check his arrogance. People like him believe they can do whatever they want just because they're legacies. But I'll be sure to put him in his place," Klaus said confidently.
"By the way, how do I accept his challenge?" Klaus asked.
"You can just post on your social media accounts," Anna replied.
"Alright, it's time to show these fools what real arrogance looks like," Klaus muttered as he opened his social media accounts. In less than three minutes, he crafted a post filled with the most arrogant words ever to grace the internet.
Klaus's post read:
"Max Duncan, you think you're invincible because you have some little soul weapon? That's just adorable. But I've faced tougher opponents in my sleep. Your little stunt is laughable; maybe find a speech coach to help you with better lines next time.
Honestly, even a school dropout like me can come up with better words than this nonsense. Maybe you should stick to hunting with your little bow; perhaps the monsters might understand you better.
Today's kids are all talk and no bite.
But since you want to challenge me, be ready to face the real deal. Hiding behind your pathetic facade is so cute that I nearly died laughing just watching you speak.
If you're afraid of death, don't bother challenging me. I don't waste time on cowards who hide behind their fancy titles.
I'll accept your challenge but with a handicap. I'll close my eyes and let you shoot three times. If you manage to kill me with those three shots, I'll drop out of the next round of the academy selection.
Good enough? Don't worry, I won't ask you to drop out because that would hurt your future. So do your best to kill me with those three attacks. After your three shots, I'll make my move, and it will be swift.
Oh, and if you manage to defend against my one attack, I'll consider it your win. You can set the time, date, and location. Hear from you later, little brother. Big brother will be waiting for your reply."
As soon as the post went live, the entire internet exploded. The audacity! Did Klaus really use his words to trash-talk someone before the battle even began? The audacity! Did Klaus just drag an entire legacy through the mud with mere words?
The audacity! Did Klaus really give a whole legacy a handicap in their fight? That's pushing it, even for someone as capable as Klaus.
"Arrogant."
"He's so arrogant; this guy thinks he's invincible."
"He's done for." Fans of Max Duncan flooded Klaus's page with hateful comments. But Klaus's fans didn't stay silent either.
"This is what you call handsome, strong, and arrogant. OMG, Klaus is the definition of Prince Charming. I'm dying from laughter!" @BigSisterTities commented.
"Damn, that's a powerful shot... Did Big Brother Klaus just call a legacy his little brother? I mean, there are two ways to take that. Max Duncan, idiots, do you want to know what he meant?" @KlausIsMyPrince commented.
"Why don't I tell them, @KlausIsMyPrince?" @KlausEternalFan, another fan joined the thread.
@KlausIsMyPrince? replied, "Go ahead, bro."
The fan wrote, "Max Duncan, he meant you are a d*ck"
"Lol, that is wild; big brother Klaus never disappoints. I can see him bitch slapping that arrogant bastard for dinner," Another fan said, joining the trolling. Klaus has fired his shot, and it's a wild one.
---
---
In a large mansion, a young man with a bow tattoo on his forehead stared at his phone, his face contorted with anger.
"That bastard!" he roared, smashing his phone against the wall.
"I told you not to do it. He's a wildcard. His fame has blinded him, and the worst has already happened. Just this post alone shows where he stands when it comes to the legacies, especially us," another young man with short black hair and striking cheekbones said.
"I don't know about that, but I think he's a perfect stepping stone," a feminine voice interjected. A beautiful dark-haired lady with eyes like the sea entered the room. She was both captivating and intimidating.
"So, are you going to accept his terms, or are you just going to continue to whine like a d*ck?" the young lady asked, barely containing her laughter.
REMOVE ADS FROM $1
Report chapter CommentsContact - ToS
THE LAST PARAGON IN THE APOCALYPSEC99: Klaus Has a Girlfriend
"In a surprising turn of events, Max Duncan, known as the Devil Archer, has challenged the famous warrior and model Klaus Hanson to a duel. Klaus accepted but with a rather arrogant twist. This is what makes the story worth reporting.
In three weeks, Max Duncan will face Klaus Hanson in the Immortal Arena in Oracle. The battle will be broadcast live, and betting platforms will be open. Those who like to take risks can place their bets and see what luck brings.
Ladies and gentlemen, I want to let you know that Klaus Hanson has agreed to take three attacks from the Devil Archer with his eyes closed. Do with this information what you will. This is the controversial news, @KKKickinIt, signing off."
Ten minutes after Klaus posted his acceptance message in a rather arrogant tone, Max responded, and Oracle updated their website, listing the duel as an upcoming event. The media and those looking to capitalize on this started making their moves.
Klaus, smiling while his friend stared at him for the past twenty minutes, finally said, "What? It's a chance to make quick money, folks. The odds on me are huge. You should put all your money on me. What are friends for?"
"Klaus, aren't you worried you might lose?" Lucy asked, looking worried.
"Oh, Lucy, Kofi is coming to pick you up. I want to take you somewhere before you leave this Friday. And hey, have some confidence in your boyfriend. I don't make empty promises. Even if I gave him a hundred chances, he couldn't do anything." Klaus said arrogantly.
Lucy, hearing his message, immediately ended the call and went to get dressed. The others on the call continue to stare at Klaus in shock.
"Arrogant, you really are arrogant, but somehow, I like it," Kay said with a smirk.
"Well, sometimes you have to be arrogant to make even the most arrogant people feel useless," Klaus replied. "Okay, ladies and gentlemen, I'm hanging up now. But remember, sell your stocks and assets; betting on me is the way to go. See you later." Klaus said before ending the call.
Mark, Nia, Asha, Kay, Lily, Kilian, Anna, Daniel, and Danny, still on the call, looked at each other for a moment before Nia spoke up. "This is going to be intense. Klaus is really going to humiliate a legacy like that."
"Do you think he can actually do it?" Kay asked.
"I think so. Besides his confidence, there's this strong desire to drag this guy through the mud," Nia replied disdainfully.
"Do you want him to win?" Asha, seeing her sister speak that way asked, concerned.
"Yes, I want him to be humiliated badly. Too bad Klaus is only going to use one attack," Nia said, clenching her teeth.
"Sister Nia, are you okay?" Lily and Anna asked at the same time.
"I'm fine," she answered, but they could all tell she was lying.
The group fell silent for a moment, the tension hanging in the air. Kilian, trying to lighten the mood, finally spoke up. "Well, whatever happens, it's going to be a show. I've never seen a duel quite like this."
Daniel nodded in agreement. "Yeah, this is definitely going to be one for the media. The whole world will be watching."
Danny, who had been quiet until now, added thoughtfully, "Klaus is really confident, but sometimes overconfidence can be a downfall. We'll have to see how it plays out."
Lily, still concerned, glanced at Nia. "Are you sure you're alright? You seem pretty worked up."
Nia forced a smile. "I'm fine, really. Just…"
Anna, looking at Nia with a mix of concern and curiosity, said, "If you need to talk about it, we're here for you."
Nia nodded, appreciating the support but not ready to share more. "Thanks, everyone. We should all focus on our cultivation now, especially you seven."
The group discussed their thoughts and predictions about the upcoming battle as the call continued. Despite the underlying tension, they were all eager to see how the duel between Klaus and Max would unfold.
Klaus, who had just ended the call, walked through the house with a broad smile. All the maids and security guards who saw him greeted him warmly. Some even asked if he was confident about his upcoming battle with Max.
It was clear they were eager to place their bets on their young master. Klaus smiled and assured them that he would win in style. After taking a moment to enjoy some fresh air, he went inside and freshened up.
A little while later, Helen arrived with a package. It was a gift from Ohema. Klaus was thrilled to receive it and was about to open it when Kofi pulled up with Lucy, who looked as breathtaking as always.
Lucy stepped out of the car, clad in a white gown with golden embroidery on the left chest area. Her silver hair flowed behind her as always, and for some reason, Klaus felt as though he could see moonlight in her eyes. Perhaps it was because he was so charmed by her presence that he imagined seeing things that weren't really there.
As soon as Lucy alighted from the car, Klaus embraced her and kissed her. This gesture made the guards and maids look at their young master with newfound respect. In their hearts, they gave him a thumbs up.
Everyone knew Lucy, the silver-haired first daughter of Daven and Cynthia Ross. She had awakened a dual elemental talent, a feat only a few prodigies were able to accomplish.
Lucy excelled in the City and Regional selections and placed second in the Union selection. Two years ago during the union Trial, she had defeated two legacies to secure her spot, joining the Celestial Mountain Academy in style.
Everyone adored her. So, to see her kissed by Klaus was a surprise but a pleasant one. After all, when this news spread, they would have the chance to brag that their boss had won in the end. Even legacies couldn't touch her heart.
"You are breathtaking as ever," Klaus said, holding Lucy's waist.
"Klaus," Lucy blushed, glancing around. The maids and guards quickly understood the situation and left, smiling as if they had just won the lottery.
"Let's go inside," Klaus said, leading her into the house. Helen, who Klaus had already asked to check on his mother in the training room, vacated the hall.
Klaus set Lucy down and served her some fruit juice. "Where is Auntie?" Lucy asked, looking around for Klaus's mother.
"You should probably start calling her Mom now since you're already mine," Klaus said, smiling smugly beside her.
"You scoundrel, just because your mom isn't here doesn't mean you can get naughty," Lucy said, stepping away from him.
"Is it working?" Klaus asked, feigning innocence.
"Get dressed," Lucy said with a bashful smile. "By the way, my mom said you shouldn't get any ideas." Klaus smiled at her warning. Who was she kidding? Who wouldn't want a mini Klaus running around?
"Don't worry; I won't make you uncomfortable," Klaus said sincerely. "By the way, if you want to see my room, you can follow me. I don't bite," he added, heading toward his room.
"Tsk, the last time you said that, you kissed me. I won't fall for that again," Lucy said, her cheeks flushed.
"You're too cute," Klaus said, admiring the flustered Lucy before disappearing into his room. He quickly got dressed and, within five minutes, emerged looking his best as always. He picked up a notepad and wrote something on it before heading out with Lucy.
Kofi, who was waiting with the car, drove them to a place one of the maids had recommended when Klaus asked for the best view in the city.
After an hour, they arrived at their destination. It was a lush area with vibrant orange vegetation. The oranges were fully ripe and looked delicious just from their appearance. The place is called Orange Mountain because it is situated on a mountain, offering a stunning view of the city.
As Klaus and Lucy stepped out of the car, they were greeted by the breathtaking view of the lush orange grove. The sun was setting, casting a warm, golden glow over everything. The air was fresh and fragrant with the scent of ripe oranges.
Klaus led Lucy along a well-worn path through the grove. The trees were heavy with fruit, their branches swaying gently in the evening breeze. Lucy couldn't help but admire the beauty around her, her eyes wide with wonder.
Klaus reached out and took her hand, guiding her to a secluded spot with a perfect view of the city below. A blanket and a picnic basket were already set up, waiting for them. The scene was beautifully romantic, with candles flickering softly in the twilight.
They sat down on the blanket, and Klaus opened the picnic basket, revealing a selection of delicious treats. They enjoyed the simple, tasty food and sipped on sparkling juice as they talked and laughed.
The conversation flowed easily, and they found themselves sharing stories and random stuff. Lucy talks more about herself and her experience so far in the academy. It was a great moment for the two young lovers.
As the stars began to twinkle in the sky, Klaus and Lucy lay back on the blanket, gazing up at the stars. The cool evening air was comfortable, and the sky seemed to stretch endlessly above them.
Klaus took a deep breath, savoring the peaceful moment. He turned to Lucy, who was looking at him with a soft, affectionate gaze. Her silver hair shimmered under the starlight, and her eyes sparkled with warmth.
After a while, they stood up, ready to leave. Klaus gently brushed a strand of hair from her face
Lucy blushed and smiled, her heart fluttering at the tender gesture. Klaus moved a little closer, his gaze locked on hers.
The moment felt suspended in time. Klaus's hand lingered on Lucy's cheek, and he leaned in slowly. Lucy's breath caught in her throat as she felt the closeness of his lips.
Finally, their lips met in a gentle, loving kiss. It was soft and sweet, filled with all the emotions they had been holding back. The kiss seemed to last forever, capturing the magic of the evening and the depth of their feelings.
Unbeknownst to them, the moment was captured by someone and has already found its way onto the internet. "Klaus Has a Girlfriend" is the phrase that caused the internet to explode.
REMOVE ADS FROM $1
Report chapter CommentsContact - ToS
THE LAST PARAGON IN THE APOCALYPSEC100: Are you jealous?
The next morning, the picture of Klaus kissing Lucy was all over the internet. The image went viral almost instantly, and people went wild. Klaus, already a hot topic, had made an unexpected splash. Everyone had anticipated seeing his girlfriend, given his high profile, but no one expected her to be the infamous Princess of Vine.
Lucy was known for her exceptional and powerful control over the wood element with her go-to skill being the Vine. Legacies and all kind of heirs have their eyes on her. She is beautiful but also very strong, the perfect combination. But she never showed interest in anyone before.
So the revelation that someone like Lucy had fallen for Klaus was a huge deal. It was as if Klaus had already won. The legacies now saw a clear difference between themselves and Klaus. This unexpected development led some influential heirs to start sending threats to Klaus.
The threats were a mix of jealousy and frustration. They were not used to being overshadowed, especially by someone they considered beneath their status. The idea that Klaus had captured the heart of a woman as esteemed as Lucy was too much for some to handle.
Despite the backlash, Klaus remained unfazed. On the contrary, just a few hours after the image of Klaus and Lucy kissing went viral, Nucci Fashion Trend X dropped a photoshoot of their new Tango suit and gown. The Photoshoot was between Klaus and Lucy, who looks rather smitten.
The marketing move was brilliant. The timing was perfect, and the new collection quickly became a sensation. Within hours, the Tango suit and gown sold out. The fashion line's success was a significant boost for Klaus, and it served as a powerful rebuttal to his detractors.
The sellout was more than just a commercial triumph; it was a direct slap in the face to everyone who had been hating Klaus. The fashion world was buzzing with the news, and the attention only added to Klaus's rising star power.
"Mom, are you really my mom?" Klaus asked, staring at the strikingly beautiful woman standing before him. Yesterday, when he got home, she was still in the training room, so he had gone to bed, only to wake up to this shock.
"Brat, are you looking for a beating?" his mother replied with a smile.
Klaus, seeing her smile, felt his heart skip a beat. What's wrong with me? I'm really blushing at my mother, he thought to himself.
"Mom, maybe you should stop smiling. Your son is falling for you," Klaus said as he moved in for a hug, which his mother gladly accepted.
"Mom, you are really beautiful," Klaus added.
"Isn't this what you wanted?" His mother said with a smile, looking at Klaus from dangerously close.
I'm really blushing, Klaus thought inwardly. The sight of her ocean-violet eyes and wrinkleless face made his heart skip a beat. Is she really my mother? he wondered again.
"Hey, brat, what are you thinking? You're not having any perverted thoughts about your mother are you?" she asked with a smile.
"I've had my eyes on you for a while now, Mother. Now that you've closed the age gap between us, I think it's time to claim my official status as the man of the house. What do you think? Wanna move in together?" Klaus said, trying to break away from the hug.
He tried to pull away, but his mother held on tight. Before he could react, a playful spank landed on his rear, making him jerk in surprise.
"You brat, I'm your mother," she said, though she knew he was just joking. The idea of her charming her son unsettled her. She noticed Klaus seemed genuinely charmed for a moment.
'I should really help him build resistance to charms before someone else takes advantage of him,' she thought.
Unbeknownst to her, Klaus was also thinking about the situation, but with a different twist. 'Why didn't I feel that hot sensation from my tattoo when I was charmed?'
Klaus had experienced the charm from seeing Ohema, Lucy, and Cynthia Ross before. Each time, he felt a hot sensation on his back that snapped him out of it before he lost control. But this time, he felt nothing when charmed by his mother. There was no resistance, but he was relieved she was his mother—there was no way she would harm him.
"Mom, I got charmed by you," Klaus said, becoming more serious now.
"I know," she replied, her tone equally serious.
"But this is good. I would have been disappointed if I had been snapped out of it by that hot sensation while under your charm," Klaus said, managing a smile.
"What hot sensation?" His mother asked, her eyes widening.
"Well, I always feel a hot sensation on my back whenever I'm being charmed," Klaus explained, making his mother's eyes widen even further.
His mother's eyes widened in surprise. "A hot sensation on your back? I didn't know that."
"Yeah," Klaus said, nodding. "It's like a warning sign. The sensation helps me snap out of it whenever I start feeling charmed. It didn't happen this time, though."
His mother looked thoughtful. "That's interesting. I guess it's a good thing you have that warning. But we'll need to figure out how to strengthen your resistance to charms."
Klaus nodded. "Agreed. It's important, especially with how people are trying to get close to me now. I have to be more careful."
His mother smiled, a mix of relief and concern in her eyes. "I'll help you with that. For now, let's just enjoy our time together."
She sat down with Klaus's head resting on her lap. "Mom, I'm going to the Everlasting Zombie Forest on Monday to advance to the Master stage. It will only be for a few hours," Klaus said.
"Okay, but you have to be careful out there," she said, gently brushing his hair.
"I will, Mom," Klaus promised.
"Good," she responded. "Klaus, do you want me to twist your hair for you? I think it will look good and be more combat-friendly."
Klaus, who wanted to spend some time with his mother, eagerly accepted the offer. "Sure, Mom. I want the dreadlocks you made for me on my 8th birthday."
His mother smiled and began twisting his hair with practiced hands. "I remember how proud you were of those dreadlocks," she said. "They looked great on you."
Klaus grinned. "Yeah, they did. Thanks, Mom."
"Mmmh, Klaus, when will your girlfriend be leaving?" Klaus's mother asked.
"Friday," Klaus answered a hint of sadness in his voice.
"Look at you, already missing her. You could invite her over for dinner tomorrow before she leaves," his mother suggested, making Klaus smile cheerfully.
"I'll do that. You really are the best mother," Klaus said. "By the way, do you think you could make her stay the night?" he asked with a grin.
"You brat, what are you thinking?" his mother replied, amused.
"Hehe, Mom, why are you twisting my hair harder now? Are you jealous?" Klaus joked.
His mother rolled her eyes but couldn't hide a smile. "Jealous? Of your girlfriend? I think I'll pass."
Klaus chuckled. "Come on, Mom. You know you'll always be my number one girl."
She playfully swatted his arm. "You're such a charmer. You better not use those smooth lines on other girls. Your girlfriend should be the one hearing such shameless words."
Klaus winked. "Only if you promise to keep up the good work with these dreadlocks."
"Alright, alright," she said, shaking her head with a laugh. "Just remember, if you ever need advice on romance, you know where to find me."
"Definitely," Klaus said with a mischievous grin. "And I might need to call for backup if I'm in trouble."
His mother raised an eyebrow. "Backup for what?"
"Backup for when my girlfriend realizes she's dating a momma's boy," Klaus teased, laughing as his mother playfully rolled her eyes again.
"By the way, how is your 'Sugar Mommy'?" his mother asked, referring to Ohema, whom Klaus had started calling Sugar Mommy.
"She's great. She sent me a gift, but for some reason, she refused to see me, even when I offered to visit," Klaus said.
"Well, she might be busy with other things, you know," his mother said, shaking her head.
"But tell me, Klaus, do you really like her? I mean, do you like her?" his mother asked, a bit embarrassed.
"Mom, you know you can ask me anything," Klaus said, turning to look at her as she tried to hide her face. "No need to be embarrassed."
"And yes, I do like her, but I don't know about her, so for now, we're just friends. I don't want to make things complicated. Also, I really like Lucy, so I think I'll stick with her for now," Klaus answered.
"You player! I knew it. You're just like your father," his mother said with a laugh. After a couple of hours, Klaus's hair was all twisted, making him take on a new look. He later called Lucy to inform her about the dinner plans and promised to pick her up the next day.
After that, he went to his room and opened the gift Ohema sent him. When he saw the content, his jaws dropped.
REMOVE ADS FROM $1
Report chapter CommentsContact - ToS