THE LAST PARAGON IN THE APOCALYPSEC57: Sword Aura True Awakening
He turned just in time to see two more Zombie Generals charging at him, their clubs raised high. Klaus sidestepped the first, but the second managed to graze his shoulder. The impact sent him spinning, his feet skidding across the ground.
"Damn it," Klaus muttered, feeling the sharp sting of the hit. Although he still has some stamina and his bones are bracing for the impacts, the pain can never be ignored. He couldn't stop, or more like he didn't want to stop. He wanted to test his limit and for one, he got exactly what he craved. He has already taken down one General, however, the remaining six are even more terrifying now.
Taking down one made them gain more room to coordinate their attacks. They now backed each other up, following up each other's attack. It's like they know each other's rhythm. These zombies are more lethal and intelligent than the Tier 4 and below.
He raised his sword, blocking another attack, the force pushing him back a few meters. Klaus grits his teeth, pushing back against the weight of the club. His arms shook, but he held firm.
Then, he felt it—a familiar surge of energy building within him. His Star Diagram cultivation method was kicking in, circulating his qi through his body, healing him. Klaus immediately felt rejuvenated, almost like he hadn't had any injuries during the battle.
'So it works this way too' Klaus said inwardly trying to replicate the feeling. However, no matter how hard he tried, he just couldn't get it. It was like just when his injuries were about to get severe, the Star Diagram kicked in.
Unbeknownst to Klaus, just when his internal injuries were starting to become more severe, the tattoo on his back took effect lighting up subtly and the Star Qi circulated within him.
"With my Star Qi pool, I can do this all day" Klaus muttered, summoning every ounce of power he could muster. He released another blast of ice, freezing the ground beneath the Zombies' feet. The creatures stumbled, their balance thrown off.
Klaus didn't waste a moment. He dashed forward, his sword slicing through the air with deadly precision. He aimed for the neck of the nearest Zombie General, but the creature raised its club just in time to block the strike. The impact sent vibrations through Klaus's arms, but he didn't back down.
With a quick twist of his wrist, Klaus redirected his sword, slashing at the Zombie's side. His blade cut through its armor-like skin, and the creature howled in pain. Klaus pressed on, delivering a flurry of blows, each one chipping away at the Zombie's defenses.
But the other Zombies weren't standing idly by. One of them lunged at Klaus from behind, its club crashing into his back. Klaus gasped as pain exploded through his body. He staggered forward, barely managing to stay on his feet.
"Fuck, this bastards are too vicious" he muttered through gritted teeth, forcing himself to stand tall. He spun around, just in time to block another attack. His sword clashed with the Zombie's club, sparks flying from the impact.
Klaus was panting now, struggling to take in breaths. His vision blurred, but he refused to fall. He could feel the blood running down his side, mixing with the dirt beneath his feet. But then again, the Star Qi circulated and he was filled with energy yet again, healing all wounds again.
The Zombies circled him again, their eyes glowing with a hunger for death. Klaus raised his sword, and the moment he summoned his strength, he felt something shift within the blade. As a Weapon Overlord, he instantly understood what was happening. That sensation he'd been feeling in his sword—it was stirring again.
At first, Klaus had thought he'd already awakened this power, but now he was drawn deeper into the energy. The sharpness of the blade felt enhanced, and he could sense a new connection forming. It was as if the sword and he were linked, bound by a shared force.
"Well, isn't this exciting," Klaus thought with a wry smile. He could feel the difference—his aura felt sharper, more refined. His next attack would be something far more precise and deadly.
"Let's give it a try," he muttered, tapping into the energy pulsing within the sword. As soon as he did, the blade began to glow with a golden light. An oily, swirling energy coiled around the edge of the weapon, and Klaus could feel its sharpness intensifying. He was certain now—this sword could cleave through a mountain with a single strike.
Ice essence and star qi surged into his sword, the two energies blending powerfully. At the same time, he stomped on the ground, freezing the area within a kilometer around him. The sudden frost forced the Zombie Generals to stumble back, giving Klaus the opening he needed.
Without hesitation, he unleashed two Moon Slash attacks. Two icy arcs, now glowing with a golden aura, shot out of his sword, slicing toward the generals. The first zombie was too slow to react, and the arc cut cleanly through its body, splitting it in half. The second general, quicker on its feet, raised its club to block the strike.
Though it managed to halt the arc, the force of the attack was too much. The club cracked and shattered into pieces.
"That's more like it," Klaus muttered, a smirk tugging at his lips. "Let's see who has the last laugh." With that, he dashed toward the now weaponless zombie.
The zombie tried to retreat, moving quickly to escape, but Klaus was ready. He stomped the ground again, expanding the icy field, freezing everything in its path. The retreating general found its movements restricted, its escape cut off.
Klaus wasted no time. He thrust his sword forward, driving it through the zombie's back. Ice spread rapidly through its body until it crumbled into frozen fragments. In mere moments, three out of the seven Zombie Generals had been slain.
Klaus grinned, finally feeling like he had control of the battle. He turned his gaze to the remaining four Zombie Generals. Their bloodthirsty eyes gleamed with rage, but now there was a flicker of caution like they were fearing him, something that shouldn't be possible, they are zombies, not humans. Fear is not part of their emotions. Klaus could see they were growing wary of his power.
One of the zombies, the largest of the remaining four, charged at him with a roar. It swung its massive club toward Klaus's head, moving faster than the others. Klaus narrowly dodged the attack, the club smashing into the frozen ground, sending shards of ice flying everywhere.
Klaus spun to the side, taking advantage of the zombie's slow recovery. His sword glowed again as he slashed it upward, aiming for the creature's arm. The blade sliced through with ease, severing the arm at the shoulder. The zombie let out a screech as its weapon fell from its grip.
Not waiting for a counterattack, Klaus quickly stabbed his sword into the zombie's chest. Ice spread rapidly through its body, and in seconds, the giant zombie crumbled to the ground in frozen chunks.
"Three left." He muttered
Two more zombies rushed him together. One swung a jagged club while the other had a sharp claw-like club that glowed with a red, ominous light. Klaus braced himself, his mind racing. He knew he couldn't take them head-on like before. He noticed the Zombies were using some kind of skill that made their weapons hurt more than they used. Although he might not die from an impact, he was rather cautious.
He dodged the claw club-wielding zombie's strike, stepping back just in time. But the clawed zombie lunged forward, nearly catching him off guard. Klaus ducked under the attack, feeling the claws graze his armor.
Quickly, he spun around and slashed at the clawed zombie's exposed back. The blade cut deep, and ice rapidly covered its body, freezing it solid. With one strong kick, Klaus shattered the frozen creature into pieces.
"Two left." He muttered with a grin
The second club-wielding zombie didn't hesitate. It roared in fury and charged again, swinging its jagged club wildly. Klaus knew he couldn't let the creature keep up this relentless assault, so he decided to change tactics.
Instead of backing away, Klaus rushed forward, meeting the zombie head-on. At the last second, he ducked under the zombie's swing and thrust his sword upward. The blade pierced through the zombie's chest, and Klaus twisted it, forcing ice to spread out rapidly.
The zombie froze in place, its body turning into a block of ice before crumbling apart like the others.
Only one zombie remained.
This last one stood still, its glowing eyes watching Klaus carefully. Unlike the others, it seemed to understand the danger it was in. It didn't rush at him. Instead, it began circling, waiting for the right moment to strike.
Klaus smiled, admiring the creature's caution, but he knew it wouldn't save it. He took a deep breath and prepared himself. His sword was glowing once again, its golden aura swirling with ice essence.
"Circling me won't save you, bro, it's better we end this now. I don't have much time" Klaus taunted
Perhaps being angered by his words, the zombie finally lunged, but Klaus was ready. He sidestepped the attack and, with a single, precise slash, cut the creature's legs out from under it. The zombie fell to the ground, unable to move.
Klaus raised his sword high and brought it down, stabbing the creature through the chest. Ice spread one last time, and the final zombie turned to frozen dust.
"Sword Aura, quite amazing," Klaus muttered, watching the golden aura coil around his blade. From the beginning of the battle, he had faced two problems. First, he couldn't block multiple enemies while counterattacking.
Second, his attacks lacked the sharpness he needed. But now, that had changed. The awakening of his Sword Aura had refined his strikes, making them sharper and more precise.
"I guess that's it," Klaus grinned to himself. "Time to collect my spoils of war, hehe." He sheathed his sword and bent down to gather the Zombie Stones from the fallen generals.
But before he could reach for the first stone, a powerful roar echoed through the forest. It was deafening, shaking the trees and sending birds scattering from the treetops. The ground beneath him trembled violently, causing Klaus to freeze in place. His instincts flared up in alarm.
Suddenly, Klaus heard the senior spoke from his soul sea
"Be ready, Klaus," the voice said. "You are about to face a true opponent."
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THE LAST PARAGON IN THE APOCALYPSEC58: Killed with a single slash
In Ross City and nearly fifty other cities, every screen was fixed on one location: the Ruin City Forbidden Zone. When the apocalypse struck, technology took a massive hit, but it didn't stay down for long. Just five years into the chaos, scientists and engineers—smarter than the greatest minds the world had ever seen—began to emerge.
These individuals had awakened with new talents and classes that enhanced their intelligence far beyond normal limits. As a result, technology advanced rapidly. This progress came with both benefits and dangers, reshaping the world in unexpected ways.
A few hours ago, Klaus made an appearance on both the City and Regional ranking charts. His battles quickly became the talk of every city. Media houses across the Northern Union broadcasted his fights, and within hours, Klaus's fame skyrocketed. People were astonished by how quickly his name spread, not just in Ross City, but beyond.
But then, chaos erupted. Out of nowhere, Klaus, who had been ranked 90th on the City chart, shot up to 35th. At the same time, his position on the Regional chart soared from 360th to 102nd. The entire Northern Union went into a frenzy.
Amidst the chaos, the military redirected their satellite feed to the Ruin City Forbidden Zone just in time to capture Klaus's clash with seven Zombie Generals. The video was broadcast across every screen, captivating viewers as if they were watching a live tournament.
With technology now more advanced than ever, the world watched in awe. Klaus, however, remained unaware of the spectacle his battles had become. He was too busy fighting for a few more points, oblivious to the chaos unfolding in the cities far behind him.
When Klaus took down the first Zombie, everyone watching held their breath in shock. But then, as if it were nothing, he went on to slaughter the others with ease. This left the audience even more stunned.
In a lush room, five individuals in army uniforms watched the battle, their expressions filled with disbelief.
"What do we know about him?" asked a figure with a white beard and a bald head.
"His name is Klaus Hanson," one of the officers replied. "He awakened about two weeks ago and lives with his mother in Ross City. His father was the Mad Hunter, who went missing six years ago."
"That's all?" the white-bearded figure pressed.
"Yes, General. There's not much else. Aside from his recent rise to fame, we don't know much about him."
"Good," the General said with a nod. "That will make things easier. Send men to the Ruin City borders to welcome him when he comes out."
"General, we can't do that," one figure in a white navy uniform quickly interjected.
The General's brow furrowed. "And why not?"
"The higher-ups issued a direct order," the navy officer explained. "We can't recruit him unless he chooses to enlist on his own. We're also forbidden from interfering in his affairs. Furthermore, once the battle ends, we're to redirect the satellite."
A tense silence fell over the room. The only sound was the steady thumping of their hearts, which seemed to slow as the weight of the situation sank in.
All they could do now was watch as Klaus fought against the remaining Zombies, powerless to act.
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In another place, two individuals watched the battle with shocked expressions. One of them suddenly broke the silence. "You said he's just an Ascended?" the figure asked, still trying to make sense of what he was seeing.
"Yes, sir," replied a young man dressed in a neat, tight-fitting suit. "He awakened about two weeks ago. Within a few days, he ascended, and ever since he's been hunting. He entered the Forbidden Zone three days ago."
"And you believe he's the one who saved Anna?" the man asked again, his eyes still glued to the screen where Klaus, with his white hair, was battling the Zombie Generals like a seasoned expert.
"Yes, sir. I followed the younger madams a few hours ago when I noticed them sneaking out. They met up with some other young people, and from what I overheard, it seems they know this young man."
Daven Ross, the patriarch of the Ross family, pondered this for a moment. "Henry, do you think we should bring him to our side? Give me your honest opinion."
Henry, the butler of the Ross family, sighed before answering. "I don't think that would be wise," he said carefully.
Daven raised an eyebrow at the response. "Oh? Why not? Explain."
"From what I've observed," Henry began, "this young man doesn't seem like someone who would follow orders easily. He was a nobody before, but now that he's gained some fame, arrogance will naturally come. That's expected. However, there's something different about him—he may become the kind of person who channels that arrogance in a good way."
Daven leaned back in his chair, intrigued. "What makes you say that?"
Henry nodded thoughtfully. "He's still new to the cultivation world. He doesn't know much about it yet, so he'll probably spend time trying to figure things out. And what better way to do that than by joining the strongest academy in the world?"
"You believe he'll join the Celestial Mountain Academy?" Daven asked.
"Even if he doesn't want to, they'll come for him," Henry replied. "I've already seen two of the academy's students with Miss Anna just a few hours ago. It seems they're trying to recruit him. That kind of attention can turn anyone arrogant."
Daven frowned slightly. "So what do you think we should do?"
"It's simple, sir," Henry said with a calm smile. "Miss Anna is the key. She seems to hold Klaus in high regard. She didn't even reveal his identity when his mother asked about him. We should let her build a connection with him. Through her, we can establish ties with him as well."
Daven nodded slowly. "You think other families will try the same?"
"Absolutely," Henry said. "The Felin family has already made a move. We must rely on Miss Anna to ensure we're not left behind."
Daven Ross sat in silence for a moment, contemplating Henry's words. The flickering images of Klaus battling the Zombie Generals continued to play on the screen in front of them, but his mind was elsewhere. He knew Henry's advice made sense. The boy was powerful, and determined, and clearly had the potential to become a major force. But he also wasn't the type to be easily swayed or controlled.
Finally, Daven spoke. "Alright, we'll follow your suggestion. Let Anna handle it. But I assume she won't agree to our arrangement easily, so make sure she has everything she needs and stays out of their business. Whether this succeeds or fails will depend on her charm."
Henry nodded with a smile. "Sir, what about Lady Lucy? She seems to have taken an interest in this boy," Henry added suddenly.
Daven Ross chuckled lightly at Henry's observation. The idea of his daughter Lucy being interested in Klaus amused him more than it surprised him. He knew Lucy was strong-willed and independent, much like Anna. The thought of her showing interest in a boy—especially one who has just awakened amused him.
"Oh, really?" Daven asked, his tone still light with amusement.
"Yes, sir. I've caught her a few times scrolling through posts about him. She seems curious, at the very least," Henry replied. As a diligent butler, he paid close attention to such details.
"Well, she's 18 now," Daven said with a shrug. "She can do as she pleases. Just keep an eye on them and make sure they're safe."
Daven turned back to the screen, just in time to see Klaus deliver the final blow to the last of the Zombie Captains. His shocked expression intensified, and then suddenly, his eyes widened.
It wasn't just him, everyone watching the screen held their breath when the colossal monster appeared from within the Ruin City.
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Klaus's heart raced. He straightened up, scanning the area for the source of the roar. The air around him felt heavy, thick with an intense pressure that made it hard to breathe. His grip tightened around the hilt of his sword as he braced himself for what was coming.
A massive figure emerged from the shadows of the trees, shaking the earth with every step. This creature was unlike anything Klaus had ever seen before. It was towering, easily twice the size of the Zombie Generals, with thick, dark fur and glowing red eyes filled with malice. Its claws were long and razor-sharp, and its body radiated an aura of raw power and bloodlust.
Everything about the monster screams bloodlust and danger. Klaus could sense that the aura coming from the new breed of Zombie standing before him was that of a Terror grade Tier 5 Zombie, the strongest creature in the Ruin City.
Klaus muttered under his breath as he stared at the monstrous Zombie. "What kind of monstrosity is this?" The creature stood about 3.4 meters tall, its sheer size both daunting and bewildering.
Its body was a grotesque amalgamation of fur, rotten flesh, and bone-like armor, resembling a nightmare made real. Klaus knew he had to act quickly. He reached for his sword, feeling its familiar weight and the sharp, cold flash of light as he swung it.
Since awakening his Sword Aura, Klaus felt a deeper connection with his weapon. He knew that in terms of sheer strength, he was no match for the colossal monster charging toward him. His only chance was to strike first and avoid letting it land a blow.
He tightened his grip on the sword and closed his eyes. Instantly, his heartbeat slowed, and he became acutely aware of his surroundings—the wind, the thudding footsteps of the monster, and the subtle link forming between his mind and the sword.
Although he was not fully synchronized, the connection was strong enough to guide him. With a sudden jolt, Klaus's eyes snapped open. He swung his sword upward with precision.
A thin arc of ice shot out from the blade, streaking toward the giant Zombie. For a moment, time seemed to stand still. Then, with a deafening thud, the Zombie split in half and collapsed to the ground.
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THE LAST PARAGON IN THE APOCALYPSEC59: The Aftermath
A heavy silence fell over everything—streets, pubs, restaurants, even homes. No one moved, no one spoke, and no one even dared to breathe too loudly. It just didn't make sense. In fact, it shouldn't have been possible.
When the mutated Zombie General appeared, everyone had braced themselves for an intense battle. They held their breath, expecting Klaus to struggle or even flee. But with a single slash, he not only killed the Zombie—he split it clean in half. The shock was too much for anyone to process.
Klaus, a mere Ascended warrior, had just taken down a Tier 5 Terror Mutated Zombie and walked away without a scratch. It defied logic. Yes, there were geniuses out there, fighters who could face opponents a level or two above them. But to kill something three realms higher with a single strike? That was unheard of.
Disbelief rippled through the crowd. Then, suddenly, the screens showing the battle went blank. The military had moved the satellite away.
As the scene of Ruin City faded from the screens, a new image appeared—a news anchor, looking serious. "Breaking news!" the anchor announced. "The young Ascended warrior, Klaus, has made his debut on the Union Warrior Ranking Chart, entering at number 807. Additionally, his rank on the City Chart is now 29, and on the Region Chart, he is ranked 98."
The moment the announcement was made, the world erupted into a frenzy once again. No one could remain idle. There was chaos everywhere, especially online. Klaus's fights had become the most trending topic, with countless videos circulating across the internet.
But while the world was buzzing with excitement over his incredible feats, the main character of all this chaos stood calmly in the central region of Ruin City, staring down at his sword. He had been staring at it for the last five minutes, deep in thought.
After another ten minutes of silent contemplation, Klaus muttered to himself, "I'll explore it later." With that, he placed the sword into his space ring. He then approached the fallen Mutated Zombie General, carefully extracting a dark Zombie Stone from its body.
"This is a high-tier stone," Klaus said with a grin, eyeing the dark stone in his hand. "Hehe, the boy's rich now." A Tier 5 Zombie Stone was something anyone would envy, and for good reason. Once someone reached the Grandmaster stage, they needed to form a Star Core to ascend to the Saint stage.
The quality of this Star Core was crucial—it determined one's future potential. Naturally, everyone sought to form the largest, most refined Star Core possible. But doing so required immense resources. Tier 5 monster cores were ideal for this purpose, but Zombie cores were even more valuable.
Not only did killing a Zombie give more experience than a regular monster, but Zombie cores also held significantly more energy.
Because of this, Zombie cores from Tier 4 and above were in high demand. With Klaus having slain hundreds, if not thousands, of Tier 4 Zombies, he now possessed a vast number of these prized cores.
Suddenly, the battlefield shifted. The ice that had covered it exploded, releasing a mist of freezing air that swept across the entire area. Within that mist, Klaus's Star Qi pulsed. As the mist spread across a 10-kilometer radius, every Zombie core on the battlefield stirred. They were drawn to Klaus, vanishing one by one into his space ring.
"My control over ice is still lacking," Klaus muttered to himself. He recalled the words of the senior who had guided him: understanding the essence of his elements—ice, and all the others—was crucial if he wanted to unleash true elemental attacks.
Klaus moved back across the battlefield, repeating his earlier actions twice more, drawing in every remaining Zombie core. Once satisfied, he left and returned to the small mountain where he had once formed his Ice Lotus skill.
"Looks like my status has risen again," Klaus said with a smile, noticing the change. "Oh, I'm on the Union Chart now. Hehe, it seems I've finally made my debut. Let's see who dares to look down on me ever again."
When Madam Fei had encouraged him to show everyone his power, no one expected his rise to be this explosive. Not only had Klaus entered the City Chart, but he had climbed to the top, and even more impressively, he had secured a spot on the Region Chart within the top 100.
In every city, there were millions of warriors, all striving for a chance to rank among the top. The Union Ranking Chart was reserved for only the top 1,000 warriors across the entire region. To make such a debut, one needed not just strength but also vast amounts of Military Contribution Points. Klaus had done it—he had made his mark.
This meant Klaus's points far surpassed those who had been hunting and killing monsters for years. Not only had he eradicated an entire region of the Ruin, but he had also wiped out two regions entirely. He had slain thousands of monsters, amassing a massive sum of points, which catapulted him to the top of the rankings upon his debut.
What Klaus accomplished in such a short time would take others months, if not years, to achieve. Normally, it would require a team of dozens of warriors to even attempt such a feat—and even then, they would barely manage it. Wiping out an entire region of a Forbidden Zone was something no one had ever imagined possible, not since the apocalypse struck.
Klaus was the first to achieve it, and he set the bar so high that even if someone tried to replicate his success, it wouldn't have the same explosive impact. His actions had redefined what it meant to be a top warrior, and the world was now watching.
Despite his incredible feats, Klaus couldn't help but frown as he stared at his status screen. "Hmm, after all this killing, I still need 7 million more experience points to level up and become a Master," he muttered, eyeing the progress bar with disappointment.
He had hoped that this battle would be the turning point, the push he needed to ascend to Master Warrior. But now, seeing how much experience was still required, he could only sigh.
Suddenly, his phone rang—now showing on the military tracking device Hanna helped him link his phone to. The name "Ohema" flashed on the screen.
"It's Ohema," Klaus said, quickly retrieving the phone. Before answering, he brushed his hair back, trying to look more innocent and cute.
"Hello, Ohema. Missing me already?" Klaus teased in a friendly tone as soon as her face appeared on the screen.
"Tsk, who's missing you?" Ohema replied with a slight blush. "By now, thousands of girls are sliding into your DMs, and you think I would miss you?"
Klaus blinked, confused. "Mmmh, what's a DM?" he asked, tilting his head slightly.
Ohema stared at him for a moment before bursting into laughter. "Oh right, I forgot you're new to all this," she said, still giggling. "Anyway, you're popular now!"
"It seems so. I guess this means I can enter the Selection for Celestial Mountain Academy," Klaus said, his voice filled with curiosity.
"Oh, absolutely," Oheme replied with a nod. "You're more than qualified now. Even without a recommendation, I'm sure the academy will reach out to you soon enough."
She paused for a moment, then raised an eyebrow. "But… aren't you worried you might have gone too far this time?"
Klaus looked at her, confused. "Gone too far? I only killed monsters and Zombies. It's not like I stole anyone's girlfriend," he said, genuinely puzzled.
Oheme sighed and leaned closer. "You're on the City, Region, and Union charts, Klaus. That alone is an insult to many prideful warriors. Think about it—if one day you woke up to find your status pushed back or wiped from the charts by someone several Tiers below you, how would you feel?"
Klaus frowned but remained silent as she continued.
"You've not only pushed people down a rank but on the City Chart, you've entered the top fifty—a feat usually reserved for Saint Warriors and above. Do you see now why I said you might have gone too far?" Oheme's tone was gentle, but her words carried weight.
Klaus thought about her words for a moment, finally understanding the impact of his sudden rise on others. He could see what she meant now. Still, it wasn't his fault that people were weaker than him. "Well, that does make sense," Klaus said, nodding thoughtfully. "I guess I won't wipe out the other three regions just yet."
Ohema's jaw dropped. "Wait, you were planning to take out the other three regions?" she asked, eyes wide.
Klaus smiled and nodded. "Yeah, I was going to use the time to break through to the Master stage," he replied casually. "But since you mentioned I might be stepping on some toes, I'll postpone it for now."
"You... aren't you tired?" Ohema asked, still in disbelief.
Klaus chuckled. "Not at all. I could do this all day." If only she knew about his heaven-defying recovery ability that defied all logic—she probably wouldn't even be able to stand next to him without feeling overwhelmed.
"Then it's a good thing I called you," Ohema said. "You don't need to break through just yet. After the City Selection, there'll be a gift. Those selected will be given a vial of Mountain Dew. Wait until then and use the Mountain Dew to cleanse your body before you push yourself to the Master stage."
"What is Mountain Dew?" Klaus asked, his tone curious.
"It's a unique medicinal essence," Ohema explained. "It cleanses all impurities from the body, allowing a warrior to cultivate more easily and break through to higher realms. If you use it, your spiritual qi will become more refined and potent."
Klaus nodded thoughtfully. "I see. I'll take your advice and—"
Suddenly, Klaus paused, his attention shifting sharply to the left. His eyes narrowed.
Ohema noticed his change in demeanor and asked, "Klaus, what is it?"
"It seems I have some visitors," Klaus replied, a cold edge in his voice. "I'll call you later, Ohema."
Before she could respond, Klaus ended the call. A wicked grin spread across his face
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THE LAST PARAGON IN THE APOCALYPSEC60: Threatening My Mother is a Big No
After ending the call, Klaus remained seated at the mountain peak, showing no sign that he was aware of the people sneaking toward him. Ever since he had transformed his spiritual Qi into Star Qi, his senses had sharpened dramatically. Now, he could sense anything within a 50-kilometer radius—a feat typically only possible for those at the Saint stage.
At the Saint level, one's senses evolve into Divine sense, allowing for perfect awareness even with closed eyes. Though even Divine sense has its limits, Klaus, who hadn't yet reached the Master stage, could already detect the slightest disturbance within his 50-kilometer range.
As soon as Klaus sensed the approaching group, he knew they had bad intentions. While he couldn't see them directly, his heightened awareness allowed him to track their movement patterns. It became clear to him that they were coming for him—and they weren't coming in peace.
"Gentlemen, I have been expecting you," Klaus said calmly. As the group of ten figures moved within 200 meters, preparing their ambush, Klaus turned toward them. A small lotus flower, made of ice, spun slowly in his hand.
The ten men froze in place, shock flashing across their faces. Klaus smiled. "No need to be surprised. Your concealment skills are good, but I'm not like everyone else."
One of the figures stepped forward, his expression hardening. "Brat, do you really think the satellite is still watching this place? No one's coming to save you."
They hadn't expected Klaus to detect them, so none of them had bothered to hide their faces. Their mission was simple—kill him and leave no trace. With Klaus dead, there would be no one left to tell the tale. However, they underestimated him, and that's their mistake.
"Oh, there was a satellite." Klaus was clearly taken aback by this revelation but quickly recovered. A small smile crept onto his lips. "It seems my actions didn't go unnoticed," he muttered to himself.
Before he could reflect any further, a gruff voice called out. "Hey, brat! Hand over the Zombie Stones, and we might think about sparing your life."
Klaus turned his attention to the speaker, a man who appeared to be the leader of the group of ten figures facing him. Klaus's smile faded into a neutral expression. "And what if I say no?" he asked calmly.
The leader sneered. "Then you leave us no choice but to kill you. Let me make this clear—you have no chance of escaping today. So it would be best if you didn't resist."
Klaus raised an eyebrow. "I'll think about that, but first, tell me—who do you work for? Why should I trust any of you?"
The leader's sneer deepened. "You don't need to know that. Just hand over the Zombie Stones, and we might consider letting you live."
Klaus sighed softly, shaking his head. "I guess Ohema was right. This powerhouse wouldn't leave me in peace."
He paused for a moment, then turned to face the ten figures. "I suppose someone hired you for this, right? This Forbidden Zone only opens once a week. You're clearly adventurers hired by somebody to ambush me here.
"Don't get me wrong," Klaus continued, his tone calm but laced with cold menace. "The ten of you don't have the spine to make this decision on your own. You all saw my feats on the internet and know the influence I hold now. So, for all ten of you to show up just to throw your lives away, means someone more powerful is pulling the strings."
He paused, a slight grin forming. "Of course, you don't have to tell me who it is. It won't change anything. I'll just kill you, and I won't feel the slightest bit of guilt. I'll even give you a chance—leave now, while you still can. Because when I strike, there won't even be bones left to bury."
Though Klaus's voice remained calm, the icy threat in his words sent shivers down the spines of the ten figures standing before him.
"With only you, do you think you can take on the ten of us? Let me tell you, the Dark Fang Mercenary group doesn't—" One of the figures began to speak but stopped abruptly, sensing something was wrong. But it was already too late.
"Dark Fang Mercenaries," Klaus muttered with a smile. He had wanted information, and now that he had what he needed, there was no reason to hold back. He could deal with them now and figure out who they were working for later.
"KILL HIM!" the leader roared, charging forward with his sword swinging wildly. The other mercenaries followed, each radiating the powerful aura of Grandmaster warriors.
Klaus remained still, not even bothering to draw his own sword. In his palm, he held nothing but an ice lotus, glowing faintly.
"Freeze."
Suddenly, ice exploded from the ground, instantly freezing everything within a 1-kilometer radius. The ten figures that had rushed forward were stopped in their tracks, frozen solid in mid-motion. Klaus remained calm, his expression unchanged. He gently tossed the ice lotus toward them.
The flower spun through the air before bursting apart. This explosion was smaller than usual, but its freezing power was several times stronger. The ice around the frozen mercenaries thickened, encasing them entirely.
Moments later, there was nothing left but ice sculptures, frozen in the exact moment of their defeat.
"Break," Klaus muttered, snapping his fingers. Instantly, ten explosions rocked the area. The ten figures that had been targeting him shattered into crystal ice, leaving no trace behind—not even their bones.
Klaus sighed, gazing at the spot where they had stood just moments ago. "Their mistake was targeting me. Maybe in their next life, they'll choose their fights more wisely." He then turned, narrowing his eyes toward a particular direction.
"You can come out now if you're not convinced," he called out in a casual tone. Almost immediately, three figures emerged from the shadows.
"I suppose you're also here for my Zombie stones?" Klaus asked, sounding bored.
"Who cares about Zombie stones?" one of the figures scoffed. Klaus raised an eyebrow. "If not for the stones, then why are you here?" he asked.
One of the figures stepped forward. "You've angered some powerful people, brat. They want you gone," he said coldly. "It's best you don't resist. Killing you will take only a moment."
"I can say the same thing," Klaus said with a small smile. His sword appeared in his hands, and before anyone could blink, he vanished. In an instant, he reappeared in front of one of the figures. With a swift motion, he stabbed his sword straight through the person's chest. The figure froze instantly, a look of shock frozen on his face.
The remaining two attackers reacted quickly, slashing their weapons at Klaus. But Klaus only smirked. Without turning around, he thrust his sword behind him. One of the attackers managed to block the strike just in time, but the third figure was slower. Klaus lashed out with a powerful kick, hitting the man squarely in the ribs.
The sound of bones breaking echoed through the air as the man staggered back, gasping in pain.
"Courting death!" the man who parried Klaus's attack snarled, swinging his weapon toward Klaus's neck. Klaus ducked just in time and kicked out, his fist smashing into the man's face. A painful grunt escaped the man's lips, but there was no time to recover.
As the first opponent struggled to get back on his feet, Klaus moved swiftly, delivering another brutal kick to his already battered face. The impact shattered his sword-wielding arm, sending him flying backward.
"Damn, these bones of mine are too strong," Klaus muttered with a grin as he dashed toward the man with the broken ribs. Before the man could stand, Klaus delivered another kick to his side, sending him crashing into the first opponent. The two of them collided and tumbled even further across the ground.
"Had enough?" Klaus asked, smiling as he stood over the two miserable figures. With their bones broken and their pride shattered, they looked far worse off than they could have ever imagined.
Klaus stared at the two men before him, his expression cold and unfeeling. The broken-faced man, despite his injuries, managed to spit out venomous words. "Brat, do you think we don't know who you are? If you kill us, you and that slut mother of yours won't go scot-free."
Klaus's icy smile faded, replaced by a deadened gaze. "Coming after me, I could forgive," he said, his voice chilling. "But threatening my mother? That's something I won't tolerate." He tightened his grip on his sword, his knuckles turning white. "Here's what's going to happen: I'll kill you two now, and then I'll find out who sent you.
After that, I'll hunt down every last one of them until there's no one left to threaten my mother."
Without another word, Klaus disappeared like a shadow in the night, reappearing behind the broken-rib man. Before the man could react, his head was severed from his body, spinning in the air before it hit the ground with a dull thud.
The broken-faced man tried to defend himself, but before he could retreat, Klaus's powerful kick connected with his skull. The impact was brutal—his head split in half, sending chunks of flesh and bone flying through the air.
Bloodstained Klaus for the first time, and he stood there in the midst of it, cold and unmoved. He glanced at the mangled bodies at his feet and muttered quietly, "In your next life, don't threaten my mother."
As he wiped the blood from his sword, he whispered a vow under his breath. "Daniel Ucher, Michael Steven, Jacob Mensah… Your organization and every one of your sponsors will follow soon." His tone was colder than the grave.
Looking at his blood-stained feet, Klaus frowned. He pulled out a bottle of water from his space ring and cleaned them thoroughly. Once satisfied, he returned to the mountain, sat down, and closed his eyes to calm himself.
A few minutes later, his phone rang again.
"Klaus, is everything alright?" Ohema's voice came through the phone.
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THE LAST PARAGON IN THE APOCALYPSEC61: Leaving the Forbidden Zone
Boom!
A loud explosion echoed through the forest, followed by a heavy thud that shook the ground. A massive, 5-meter-tall Black Wolf lay lifeless on the earth. A clean, bloodless wound on its neck suggested it had been taken down with a single, swift attack—so quick that the monster never even had time to react.
Moments later, Klaus stepped over to the fallen beast. Calmly, he extracted the core and stored it in his space ring. Around the dead wolf lay the bodies of seven others, all Tier 5 Dark monsters. The massive one at his feet was a Tier 5 Terror Mutant—one of the strongest in the Ruin City Forbidden Zone.
"That's the last of them," Klaus muttered to himself as he stored the bodies away.
After wiping out the Eastern and Central regions of Ruin City, Klaus had spent some time trying to create a Fire Lotus for his fire element just like he did with the ice element. But no matter how hard he tried, success eluded him. Growing frustrated, he turned to hunting monsters, determined to earn the 7 million experience points he needed to level up.
However, Ohema had warned him not to break through just yet. So taking her advice, Klaus refrained from mass genocide, choosing instead to pick his targets carefully. He only went after Tier 4 Dark monsters and above, ensuring his hunts were strategic rather than reckless.
Three days ago, a thought struck Klaus. Why not kill the strongest monsters in the remaining three regions before leaving? He didn't need a second opinion—he was alone, after all—so he made up his mind. Without hesitation, he carved a path into the Western Zone.
The battle was brutal. After slaughtering over fifty Tier 4 monsters, his actions finally provoked the Tier 5 generals of the region's Overlord. Once angered, they came at him in full force. But now that Klaus had access to sword aura, his attacks were sharper and deadlier, slicing through his enemies with ease.
He faced seven Tier 5 Dark Monsters and killed each one. When the last one fell, the Overlord of the region emerged. Klaus took it down with just five swift attacks, sending the massive creature to its death. With the Overlord defeated, Klaus ventured deeper into the forest. To his surprise, he stumbled upon the creature's hidden lair.
Inside, Klaus found something unexpected—High Tier monster cores. Delighted, he quickly pocketed them. Not one to waste time, he then moved on to the next region and repeated his assault. Three days later, he had managed to eliminate the major threats in Ruin City. Finally, he could sigh in relief.
However, while he was sighing in relief, others were fuming. After killing hundreds of Tier 4 monsters and dozens of Tier 5 monsters, his status on the City, Region, and Union Ranking Charts had risen.
This made many powerful people very angry, but Klaus didn't care about their feelings at this point. Suddenly, his phone started ringing.
"Hello, sweetheart. Missing me already?" Klaus said with a mocking smile. The screen showed Ohema.
"Tsk, who are you calling sweetheart?" she said, slightly blushing. "By the way, today is the last day, right? You will be coming back to Ross City today, right?" Ohema asked hurriedly.
"Of course," Klaus said with a smile. "I miss my mom dearly. Even though I know she'll scold me, I can't wait to see her."
"Of course, you can come too. My mom wants to meet you," Klaus added, still smiling.
"Sorry, I'm busy right now," Ohema replied. "But once I'm free, I'd like to meet her."
"Mm," Klaus nodded. "By the way, will you be joining the Selection for the Celestial Mountain Academy?"
Ohema paused for a moment before answering. "Yes, I'm planning to. Why do you ask?"
Klaus shrugged. "Just curious. It would be nice to see you in the academy."
"Definitely," Ohema said with a small smile. "Just make sure you get in first before making promises you can keep."
Klaus smiled back. "Although I don't like to brag, I will. Just so you know, this big brother of yours doesn't say things he can't do. If I can kill Tier 5 Terror monsters with a single swing, I'm sure I can get into that academy without even trying."
Ohema chuckled. "I like your confidence. It's refreshing. But remember, the Selection won't be easy. There will be a lot of strong candidates."
Klaus nodded. "I know. But facing challenges is what makes it interesting. I'm ready for whatever comes my way."
"Good attitude," Ohema said. "Just don't get overconfident. Even the best have their limits."
Klaus laughed. "Don't worry. I'll keep my feet on the ground. But it's nice to have someone rooting for me."
"Of course," Ohema replied. "And I'll be cheering for you from the sidelines. It's going to be exciting to see how far you can go."
Klaus's smile widened. "Thanks. That means a lot. I hope you do well in the Selection too."
"I'll do my best," Ohema said. "And who knows? Maybe we'll both make it in. It would be fun to be classmates."
Klaus's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm. "That would be amazing. We could help each other out. Even take baths together"
"Absolutely," Ohema agreed. Then she paused, replaying Klaus's last sentences in her mind. Suddenly, her cheeks turned rosy, and she glared at Klaus, who was smiling like an idiot.
"You scoundrel! I'll tell your mom about this when I meet her," Ohema said, blushing slightly. Klaus just shrugged off her threat and continued their discussion.
A few seconds later, Ohema asked a question that slightly shifted Klaus's mood.
"So, how are you going to deal with the people coming after you?" she asked.
"I'll tolerate them for now, as long as they don't threaten my mom's safety," Klaus said in a slightly cold tone. "But that won't last forever. Once I find my footing, I'll make sure to deal with every last one of them."
Ohema looked at him for a few moments before speaking. "Although my family isn't that big or strong, if you need anything, just let me know. We are friends, after all."
Klaus nodded, grateful. "Thank you. I appreciate it."
After a few more casual conversations, Klaus hung up and began to leave. The past few days hadn't just been about killing monsters. Some people had tried to attack him over his spoils or because he had ranked above influential figures on the charts.
Of course, Klaus had dealt with them before they could gain the upper hand. He had also made sure to gather any clues from them before disposing of their bodies.
After taking all he could from the battlefield, Klaus started making his way back to the checkpoint where transportation would arrive for those who survived the last 7 days in the forest. Along the way, he encountered a few people also heading out.
Everyone recognized him and greeted him warmly. Suddenly, a sweet voice called out from behind. Turning around, Klaus saw a young lady who appeared to be about 17.
"Hanna, you've become stronger," Klaus said, walking slowly so she could catch up. She was the same young lady who had approached him after he used the fireball to destroy the Eastern Region. Through her, he had learned more about the tracking devices they wore and the ranking system.
"Brother Klaus, you've become famous these past few days," Hanna said, catching up to him. "You're now a top celebrity and warrior in the Northern Union."
"Who cares about that?" Klaus shrugged, though deep down, he was more than happy to finally gain some recognition. Hanna smiled at his nonchalant expression.
"By the way, are you also from Ross City?" Klaus asked.
"No, I'm from Felin City," Hanna replied.
"Well, you have my number, so whenever you're in Ross City, you can call me. Even though I don't know much about the city, I'll be sure to show you around," Klaus said with an awkward smile. Truth be told, he really didn't know much about Ross City. He only knew the way to his home.
"I'll hold you to that," Hanna said with a small smile.
They continued to walk side by side, chatting. Along the way, people's gazes often landed on them, and some even took secret photos. However, Klaus didn't mind. He was happy to have someone to talk to.
An hour later, they arrived at the checkpoint where they would be transported to the Border. From there, everyone would head to their respective cities.
"By the way, Hanna, will you be joining the Celestial Mountain Academy selection?" Klaus asked. Hanna just smiled faintly.
"I will, but I don't think I'll make the cut. They're only selecting 200 people from the thousands who registered. I'm just a Level 5 Ascended; my chances are very slim," Hanna replied.
In response, Klaus reached into his space ring and pulled out four Tier 4 monster cores and four Tier 4 Zombie Cores. "Take these. Use them to level up to at least level 8, and you'll have a better chance. I look forward to seeing you among the 200 selected."
Hanna was shocked beyond words as she looked at the cores in her hands. "Thank you," she said softly, tears falling from her eyes. Klaus smiled and gently wiped her tears.
"You can call me if you need anything. Although I can't promise I can solve all your problems, I'll be there for you." Klaus saw himself in the girl. he can tell she is someone who has no one, the same situation he was in just a few weeks ago. So he didn't hesitate to make sure she had someone she could count on.
Just then, the shuttle arrived, and everyone eager to go home started boarding. Klaus pulled Hanna along, and soon they were in the shuttle. It began moving, heading back to the borders, which took just over an hour. Immediately after they arrived, Klaus was shocked to see a crowd of people each staring daggers at the shuttle. Clearly, they are there for him.
He was so overwhelmed that he didn't know what to do. Suddenly, a voice entered his head. Turning around, he saw some faces he recognized,
"Anna, what are you doing here" Klaus asked stepping down from the shuttle along with Hanna
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THE LAST PARAGON IN THE APOCALYPSEC62: Arrival of a Handsome Hero
Immediately after Klaus disembarked from the shuttle, the entire area erupted. The sounds of boys, girls, men, and women filled the air. Klaus, who was at the center of this attention, could only move with an embarrassed expression. He wasn't used to this kind of attention and wished the earth would swallow him whole.
Hanna, standing beside him, also couldn't handle it. She hid behind Klaus. She was a nobody who gained some fame after appearing in a video talking to Klaus following the massacre in the Eastern Region of Ruin City.
"Brother Klaus, can I get your autograph?"
"Brother Klaus, I want to be as handsome as you!"
"Brother Klaus, tell me your secret to becoming so strong!"
"Brother Klaus, I've heard so much about you! Can you give me some advice?"
"Brother Klaus, my friends won't believe I saw you! Can we take a picture together?"
"Brother Klaus, I've been your fan forever! Please, just one photo!"
"Brother Klaus, what's it like to fight those monsters? I want to hear all about it!"
"Brother Klaus, can you sign my shirt? Please?"
The crowd's requests were endless and shameless, and Klaus could only smile awkwardly, trying to navigate through the throng of eager fans. The people, young or adult, are all shouting at the top of their voices knowing full well that none of the requests will be met.
Suddenly, Klaus noticed some familiar faces. "Anna, what are you doing here?" Klaus asked, looking at the girl he had met twice before. The first was in Sunlight Forest, and the second was in the Everlasting Zombie Forest. He had seen glimpses of her at Ross Academy but never had a chance to interact with her. Now, things have changed.
"Oh, we're here to welcome you, Klaus," Anna replied.
Before Anna could say more, Danny walked up to Klaus giving Klaus a room to breathe. Being at the center of things is rather overwhelming. Klaus promised himself he would reward Danny for his help today. In the face of thousands of monsters, Klaus's resolve never faltered, but among all these people, he felt weak.
When it came to fighting, he showed powers beyond comprehension. But faced with cheering humans, he felt lost.
"Danny, good to see you again," Klaus said, patting the young man on the shoulder. This gesture drew comments from the crowd, especially as Daniel, Mark, Kilian, and Kay also approached, greeting Klaus and Hanna.
Many people recognized Danny and the others, adding to the chaos. The appearance of Danny and Daniel caused an even greater stir.
They are known as the Daniel Brothers, they were famous for always doing everything together. Even before they awakened, their bond was stronger than that of most brothers. At first, many people thought they were actual brothers, but in truth, they were just close friends who had met at the same academy.
Their fame made Klaus's already overwhelming popularity even greater. The crowd's excitement only grew with the arrival of Mark, Kilian, and Kay, who were well-recognized and welcomed.
But when Anna, Lucy, Lily, Asha, and Nia appeared, the scene erupted. The Ross Sisters were legendary, known across Ross City and beyond as geniuses born once every thousand years.
Anna is a Dual Elementalist, she awakened both Ice and Water elements. Her sister, who had already entered Celestial Mountain Academy, also had the Ice element, but her second element was the wood element.
Their reputation as geniuses was well-known, and seeing them welcoming Klaus caused a frenzy of cheers and emotions from the crowd. Lily was also famous, coming from the esteemed Felin family, just like Anna. Although Asha and Nia were less known, their stunning beauty made them popular. Their appearance added to the excitement, as everyone admired their looks.
"Hello everyone, good to see you all," Klaus said, finally able to relax a bit as he looked around with grateful eyes. However, when his gaze landed on Lucy, he paused for a moment.
Noticing his gaze, Anna quickly introduced them. "Klaus, this is my sister Lucy. She's a big fan," Anna said with a slight smile, looking at her sister, who seemed mesmerized by Klaus's golden eyes.
"Nice to meet you," Klaus said with a warm smile. He then turned to Hanna. "Everyone, this is Hanna. She's my friend," he said, introducing her to everyone individually. Hanna, who had been lost in thought, quickly snapped back to attention as Klaus introduced the group.
"Hi everyone," Hanna said with a slight bow.
"Sister Hanna, no need to bow," Asha said, taking Hanna's arm and gently pulling her away from behind Klaus, bringing her to the side of the ladies. "Since you're Brother Klaus's friend, you're our friend too."
"Mmm, can we find somewhere more private to talk? This place is too crowded," Klaus suggested. Everyone nodded in agreement.
Soon, they all got into an extravagant car that could accommodate them all. Before entering, Klaus noticed Kofi, his chief security officer. He messaged Kofi to follow them. With that, they left the scene.
Shortly after they departed, news of the arrival of the young, handsome hero began spreading. Along with the news of his power and looks, it was also noted that he was friends with some of the most renowned geniuses in the Eastern Region of the Northern Union.
Klaus and his friends left the scene and headed toward Ross City. Inside the car, Klaus learned just how much chaos he had caused. To their surprise, Klaus only smiled and said he hadn't meant to offend anyone. He was just training, and if anyone needed to be blamed, it was the monsters for being too weak.
This remark made everyone look at him as if he were a monster himself. "Let me tell you, Brother Klaus, the fact that you're now on the three Ranking Charts shows your status has reached the highest level," Danny said, he then cast an apologetic look at Anna and Lily.
"Although you don't seem concerned, many of these Great Families won't want you disrupting the status quo. They'll either try to curry favor with you or try to stop you from shining."
"No need to apologize, Danny," Anna said. "I'm from a Great Family, and I know how they operate. But don't worry, Klaus, my family won't come after you or try to use other means to win your favor." Lily nodded in agreement.
Klaus looked at them with a smile. "You're all my friends, so if your families need help and I can assist, I won't just stand idly by. But as for those who try to use intimidation, heh, Uncle Zizzy and the others will certainly have a field day," Klaus said with an evil grin, imagining the look on his uncles' faces when he tells them he's in trouble and needs their help.
"Anyway, no more talk about who's after whom. I just want to live my life. If anyone tries to disrupt that, I'll handle it when the time comes. For now, I want to know how you're all doing," Klaus said, subtly warning them.
This made the young men and women sigh in their hearts. Klaus was certainly different from what they had expected, but since he had made it clear he would be there to help when needed, they smiled happily.
Despite their reluctance, Klaus could see they were here to curry favor. He understood that their families wouldn't make things easy for them, so he made that bold statement to calm them down.
"Well, the Felin Youth Ball is next week," Daniel said. "Other than that, we're just training and waiting for the Celestial Mountain Academy Selection Exams."
"What is this Felin Youth Ball?" Klaus asked. It was his first time hearing about it. Lily glanced at Mark with a look that seemed to say, 'You better explain.'
Mark, who, like Lily, was from the Felin Great Family, cleared his throat and started explaining. "Well, it's an annual gathering of the youth from the Eastern Region of the Northern Union. We meet to make connections and interact with newly awakened individuals. To be honest, it's a gathering of the elite from various cities and clans in the region. It's strictly by invitation," Mark explained.
The Felin Youth Ball was started by the Felin Great Family 14 years ago. Initially, it was meant to scout elite youth to bring into their fold. However, they soon realized it could be more than that. Instead of inviting every awakened youth, they began selecting whom to invite. While the heirs of other Great Families are always welcome, those from less prominent backgrounds can only attend if invited.
Their goal was simple: to bring these individuals into their fold, show them the kind of life they could live, and hopefully win them over to their side. It was a smart move, and for the past 14 years, it has been quite successful.
"Sounds like a fun gathering," Klaus said with a neutral expression. He didn't care much about being invited. However, he knew he would be invited regardless of whether the guest list was complete. As expected, Lily confirmed this.
"Brother Klaus, you are invited. Sister Hanna, you are too," Lily said.
Klaus smiled and nodded. He then turned to Asha and Nia. "Fairies, are you still interested in buying Zombie Stones?" he asked with a knowing smile.
Asha and Nia's eyes lit up at the mention of Zombie Stones. "Yes, we'll buy any amount you have!" they said quickly. They had been waiting for the right moment to ask, so hearing his offer, they were eager to accept. Klaus was pleased to sell to them, especially since they planned to inflate the market price.
Shortly after, they arrived in Ross City and entered a lush restaurant. Klaus, who had never been to such a place before, was impressed by the interior decor. But despite his surprise, he composed himself and followed his friends inside.
They were led to a private room where various drinks were waiting for them. Klaus wasn't surprised by the luxury, as this restaurant was one of many owned by the Ross Great Family.
'It's good to have money'
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THE LAST PARAGON IN THE APOCALYPSEC63: Talk about the Celestial Mountain Academy
Sitting around the table, everyone started drinking and talking. Klaus, of course, didn't shy away and took sips of the juice drinks since that was all they had. The young men and women in the room didn't mind. They were happily chatting and drinking.
"Klaus, my sister wants to introduce you to someone. She's a fashion designer," Anna said, giving her sister a knowing smile.
"Oh, that's something," Klaus muttered, glancing at Lucy, who had become quieter after meeting him. She has been pestering Anna to introduce them, but after meeting him, she has become even more silent and shy.
"I don't mind meeting your friend, but in return, I want you to tell me more about the Celestial Mountain Academy."
Lucy, who had been a bit embarrassed by how her sister brought it up, quickly brightened at Klaus's request.
She cast a subtle glance at Nia and Asha before she began speaking. "Celestial Mountain is the strongest and the best academy in the entire world." Klaus and the others listened closely, hanging on to every detail she shared.
From her description, the academy is located on the tallest mountain on Earth—Mount Everest. In fact, it seems like the entire mountain is the academy. When the apocalypse hit and everything began to change, Mount Everest changed too. Something profound happened to the world's highest mountain.
Her expression shifted slightly as she talked about what was discovered ten years into the apocalypse by the six overlords. They were shocked to find something even more fascinating. It turned out the mountain was one giant mechanism, existing for who knows how long. Though she didn't know all the details, she mentioned that cultivating there was easier and much more efficient.
After the apocalypse, it transformed into something mystical. The air around the mountain was no longer thin or harsh.
The academy was built into the mountain itself. But it wasn't just a structure perched on the slopes—it was woven into the very rock. Tunnels and chambers cut deep into the mountain's heart, with walls that seemed to hum with energy. Some parts of the academy hung off the cliffs, connected by glass walkways, while other sections were hidden within vast caves that could hold entire cities.
Every floor of the academy had a purpose. The lowest levels were for new students, who needed time to adapt to the mountain's strange atmosphere. The higher you went, the more intense the energy became. Students who could withstand the pressure and focus their minds were allowed to climb higher. Only the most talented reached the peak, where the most powerful techniques were taught.
Legend has it that the mountain itself chooses who can rise through its levels. Not everyone is allowed to ascend. Some students are stuck on the lower levels for years, unable to climb further because the mountain refuses to let them. For others, the climb comes naturally. The mountain seems to guide them, making their journey smoother as they ascend toward the peak.
At the top of the mountain, it was said, the energy was pure and overwhelming. It could break those who weren't ready. But for those who could withstand it, their strength would grow at unimaginable speeds. The six overlords, who had discovered the mountain, were the first to experience its power. They built the academy around this energy, using it to nurture the world's most promising talents.
She said that the very air inside the academy was thick with power. Even walking through the halls felt different. Klaus could imagine what it must be like—every breath must feel like it's filling your body with strength. But it wasn't just the energy that made the academy special. The teachers there were the best in the world, having trained in the mountain for decades.
There were training rooms within the academy where gravity could be controlled. Some rooms had increased gravity to force students to push their limits. Others had no gravity at all, allowing students to practice in zero weight, refining their control over their abilities. Students would spend hours there, pushing their bodies and minds, all in the pursuit of perfection.
Some chambers simulated extreme weather conditions. One could be training in a desert with scorching heat one minute, then step into a blizzard the next. These rooms were meant to prepare students for the real world, where they might face harsh environments while fighting powerful monsters.
But the true heart of the academy was the Celestial Core. Deep within the mountain, this core was where the mountain's energy was the most concentrated. It was a place only the strongest were allowed to enter. Those who meditated near the Celestial Core found their cultivation advancing at an astonishing speed.
Their energy channels opened wider, their control over their elements sharpened, and their physical strength grew beyond human limits.
Only the top students were allowed near the core. Even then, they could only stay for short periods because the energy was so intense. Staying too long could cause someone to lose control of their power or even burn out completely. It was a dangerous place, but those who could handle it became legends.
The academy didn't only focus on raw power, though. It also emphasized knowledge. The library was one of the largest in the world, filled with ancient scrolls and books that had survived the apocalypse. There were texts on everything from cultivation techniques to the history of the world before the fall.
Many students spent as much time in the library as they did in the training rooms, understanding that knowledge was just as important as strength.
Beyond the training and learning, the academy was also a place of competition. Students were ranked based on their performance in both combat and academic studies. The ranking system was brutal but fair. Everyone had a chance to rise if they worked hard enough.
The top students were rewarded with special privileges, like access to rare techniques, better living quarters, and, most importantly, time near the Celestial Core.
The students come from all over the world, but at the end of the day, the academy only accepts the best, and every year, thousands apply, but only a few are accepted. Even fewer managed to stay for long. The academy's standards were unforgiving, and many students left after realizing they couldn't keep up.
Despite the challenges, those who graduated from Celestial Mountain Academy became the most powerful figures in the world. They were the leaders, the protectors, and the warriors who kept humanity safe from the horrors that roamed the earth after the apocalypse.
Klaus and the others realize that the mountain holds secrets that only a few people know. She subtly hinted at some of these secrets, but Klaus and the others could tell she didn't know much herself. She was only able to share what she had heard from others.
They also learned that from time to time, the Overlords visit the academy to teach, which, from her expression, was one of the most cherished moments every disciple looked forward to. She was more than happy to share some of the rare lessons she had learned, a gesture Klaus appreciated.
She went on to introduce them to the power factions within the academy. According to her, every person who gets accepted into the academy must join one of the eight available factions.
These factions compete for resources, so it's crucial to join one once you're accepted. The academy also has a ranking system for both factions and individuals, based on contributions and the rewards earned.
From her description, the system is fair and just, but it's also harsh. Despite making it into the academy, if you slack off, you'll be pushed out. There's always a constant struggle and competition to be the best and receive the best treatment.
Also, once you step into the academy, you will be cut off from the outside world. All forms of communication will be disconnected. You'll only be able to contact those outside after you become an Inner Disciple. Klaus frowned slightly at this, concerned about his mother. But he sighed in relief when he heard her next words.
He was worried about his mother, but knowing that the academy would protect his loved ones eased his concern. As long as his mother was safe, he would be willing to enter even the toughest challenges if it meant coming out stronger.
Lucy continued, "The academy is divided into three regions. The base of the mountain is the Outer section, where everyone who is accepted starts. It might sound like a disadvantage, but being in the Outer section alone will greatly improve your cultivation.
I am currently in the Outer section and will only move to the Inner section once I break through to the Saint stage. This is one of the requirements to become an Inner Disciple.
Yes, there are requirements for becoming an Inner Disciple. The first is to become a Saint in under 2 years after joining the academy. This is relatively easy because just being at the academy helps you progress faster. The second requirement is to kill a Tier 6 Terror before reaching the Saint stage.
This is also manageable, as the academy provides all the techniques and skills needed to accomplish this task.
However, the main requirement is climbing the Stairway to Heaven." Klaus and the others, hearing this for the first time, raised their eyebrows.
"Stairway to Heaven?" Klaus asked.
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THE LAST PARAGON IN THE APOCALYPSEC64: Stairway to Heaven
Lucy nodded, seeing the curiosity on their faces. "Yes, the Stairway to Heaven," she repeated. "It's not just a name. It's an actual staircase, carved into the side of the mountain, leading up to the Inner section. But it's not like any normal staircase. This one tests you—your will, your strength, your mind.
Every step becomes harder as you go up, and only those who are truly ready can make it to the top."
Klaus furrowed his brow, imagining what it must be like. "What kind of tests?" he asked.
Lucy paused for a moment as if recalling something difficult. "The first few steps test your body. The gravity increases with each step. At first, it feels like you're carrying a heavy weight, but the higher you go, the heavier it gets. After a while, it feels like your bones are being crushed."
She took a deep breath before continuing. "Then, it gets worse. The next steps test your mind. They mess with your thoughts, making you question yourself, and filling your head with doubts and fears. It feels like you're losing control of your own mind. Some people turn back at that point, too scared to continue."
Lily leaned forward, her eyes wide. "Has anyone ever made it all the way up?"
"Yes," Lucy replied, "Many. Those who do are the strongest of the strong. They become the true Inner Disciples of the academy. Climbing the Stairway to Heaven is the final test, the hardest challenge anyone will face before becoming an Inner Disciple."
Klaus couldn't help but wonder if he could ever make it. "What happens if you fail?" he asked quietly.
Lucy's expression softened. "If you fail, you can try again. But some people never do. The experience can be... traumatic. Not everyone is ready to face the stairway more than once."
The room fell silent for a moment, everyone imagining the challenge that awaited them if they ever got the chance to join the academy. Klaus clenched his fists, feeling a fire ignite within him. This was no ordinary academy. It was a place that tested your limits and pushed you beyond what you thought was possible.
He is a paragon, someone meant to topple the heavens and reshape the universe to his liking. Becoming Strong is his first name, so hearing such a place exists where he can become more powerful, he couldn't help but wonder what it will be like, the real thing of course
"So," Lucy continued, "that's why the academy is divided into three regions. The Outer section, where all students start, is meant to build your strength. You'll be there until you reach the Saint stage. Once you do, you can attempt the Stairway to Heaven. If you succeed, you enter the Inner section."
"And the third region?" Asha asked, her voice quiet.
Lucy smiled slightly. "The third region is called the Celestial section. Only the best of the best get to go there. It's where the academy's greatest disciples train. Those who make it to the Celestial section are considered legends. They are the ones who can stand against the strongest monsters and protect the world."
Klaus couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement. The thought of one day entering the Celestial section was thrilling. But he knew it would take time and hard work.
"So, you're still in the Outer section?" Kay asked.
Lucy nodded. "Yes, I've been there for a while now. But I'm getting closer to breaking through to the Saint stage. Once I do, I'll have my chance to climb the Stairway to Heaven."
Klaus looked at her with respect. Lucy might seem calm and collected, but she was aiming high. "And you're sure you're ready for it?" he asked.
She met his gaze with determination. "I am. I've trained hard for this moment. But even so, I'm not taking it lightly. The stairway is no joke."
Lily shivered slightly at the thought of the stairway's challenges. "It sounds terrifying."
"It is," Lucy admitted. "But that's what makes it worth it. Only those who conquer the stairway prove themselves worthy of entering the Inner section. Entering the Inner Section will send you one step closer to becoming a true expert. You will have access to many valuable resources to boost your cultivation"
Klaus let out a deep breath, his mind racing with thoughts of the academy. It sounded like the ultimate test of strength, both physical and mental. He knew he had a long way to go before he could even think about stepping foot on that mountain, but the idea of one day facing those challenges filled him with determination and excitement.
"So, what happens in the Inner section?" Klaus asked, curious to know what lay beyond the stairway.
"In the Inner section," Lucy said, "the training becomes even more intense. You learn advanced techniques and fight stronger monsters. The energy there is even more concentrated, making cultivation faster and more powerful. The masters there are legends themselves, and they guide you through the final stages of your training."
"And after that?" Klaus asked, leaning forward.
"After that," Lucy replied, "if you're lucky enough and strong enough, you'll be invited to train in the Celestial section. That's where the true masters of the academy are. It's a place of ultimate power and knowledge, but only a few ever make it there.
However, I don't know the test and requirements that come with gaining the approval to become a Celestial Disciple. But from the little I know, those at the Celestial stage are even stronger than you can imagine. Every disciple craves to get in."
The room was quiet for a moment as everyone processed what Lucy had told them. From Lucy's speech, it seems the Celestial Mountain Academy was more than just a school—it was a place that could make or break a person. The challenges were immense, but the rewards were unimaginable.
Klaus felt his heart race with excitement. He knew that if he ever got the chance to go there, he would give it everything he had. The thought of standing on top of the mountain, having climbed the Stairway to Heaven and entered the Celestial section, was a dream worth chasing.
And it wasn't just him; Kay, Danny, Daniel, Kilian, Hanna, Anna, and Lily all looked excited and determined to get in. Klaus sighed, knowing the struggle would be real. There are hundreds of thousands of young experts from every city vying for a chance to enter the most prestigious academy in the world, and at the end of the day, only 200 will be selected to advance to the regional selection.
It's going to be difficult. However, Klaus trusts in his abilities and believes he will be able to pass. But out of curiosity, he asks, "So, Lucy, what will the City Selection be like? What are the tests one needs to pass to have a chance to be among the first 200 picked?"
Lucy's eyes lit up with the same excitement that Klaus and the others felt for unknown reasons. "The City Selection is tough. It's the first step toward entering the academy. It's where the most promising candidates are chosen from each city."
Klaus listened closely, eager to understand what lay ahead. "What kind of tests do they have?"
Lucy took a moment to gather her thoughts. "The selection consists of several parts. First, there's a test of physical strength. It's designed to see how well you handle combat and endurance. You'll face monsters of varying tiers in a controlled environment. The better you perform, the higher your chances of moving on."
Klaus nodded. "And what comes next?"
"The second part is a test of skill and technique," Lucy continued. "You'll be evaluated on your ability to use your skills effectively. This part is not just about raw power but also about precision and strategy. They want to see if you can think on your feet and use your abilities in creative ways."
Klaus thought about his own skills. He felt confident in his abilities, but he knew he would need to showcase them in the best way possible. "What about the third part?"
"The third part is a mental test," Lucy explained. "It's meant to assess your focus and determination. You'll face challenges that test your willpower and decision-making under pressure. Sometimes, they throw in psychological obstacles to see how you handle stress and uncertainty."
Klaus raised an eyebrow. "Psychological obstacles? What do you mean?"
Lucy sighed. "Sometimes, they use illusions or scenarios that play on your fears or doubts. It's meant to see if you can stay calm and composed. They want to know if you have the mental toughness to endure the academy's rigorous training."
The room was silent as everyone absorbed the information. Klaus could see the determination on their faces. They all want to get into the academy.
"And after all those tests?" Kay asked, looking curious.
Lucy smiled. "After you pass the tests, there's a final evaluation where the top candidates from each city are chosen. They look at your overall performance and potential. Only the best of the best make it through to the next stage, the regional selection."
Klaus smiled excitedly "Thanks for explaining, Lucy. It sounds like we'll need to prepare really well."
"Definitely," Lucy agreed. "But remember, the academy is looking for talent and potential. If you show them what you've got, you'll have a good chance of making it. You don't have to force yourself too hard—just give your best and let the experts evaluate you."
Klaus and the others nodded, looking very pleased. They all wanted to enter the academy, and next week, they planned to show their talent and strength. For now, Klaus intended to use his remaining days to train and prepare.
"Thank you, Lucy, for telling us all this. We will do our best to enter and study together," Klaus said, and his friends nodded in agreement.
"So now that you've held up your end of the bargain, it's my turn," Klaus said with a smile. "When can we meet this friend of yours? I happen to need some clothes for the Felin Youth Ball."
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