Ch. 2531..2540
Chapter 2531 One Punch
At his words, everyone burst into laughter.
After all, Levi was the only person who didn’t know who Karsten was.
He was arrogant as usual, living in his own world.
It didn’t seem to be a bad thing, though.
“Boss, didn’t you realize that fighters have been popping up from everywhere since the new Divine Leaderboard had been announced? Karsten was the strongest among them. He’s the heir of the Divine Extraction Technique. Compared to the Iron Golem Technique, it is…”
They immediately explained Karsten’s background to Levi, thinking that the latter would be shocked at his experience.
Surprisingly, Levi remained calm. “Oh, he’s ranked fourth on the Divine Leaderboard. If he was the first, I would’ve known of him.”
Levi was saying that the top three fighters were his alternate identities, so if Karsten had replaced his spot, he would’ve known of it.
However, everyone else thought he was looking down on Karsten.
“Boss, he’s ranked fourth on the Divine Leaderboard! This is different from the past rankings. He’s stronger than a thousand fighters from the past! Besides, his Divine Extraction Technique remains a mystery to us. In fact, he might be the strongest fighter ranked on the Divine Leaderboard and might not lose the fight against the top three fighters!”
Others present voiced out their concerns too.
Most of them had confidence in Karsten.
“One against three?” Levi chuckled.
One against three? I’m the one who defeated thirty thousand in one go. Now, it’s the opposite. He had no idea that my alternate identities are the top three on the Divine Leaderboard!
He found it amusing that Karsten wanted to challenge three of him at the same time.
This is the boldest thing you’ve ever done, Karsten!
However, instead of getting mad, Levi’s lips curled into a grin.
This piqued his interest.
After the Gods in Restricted Area 76, there was finally someone else who was worthy of being his opponent.
His technique is on par with the Iron Golem Technique? And he is going to achieve the highest level soon? That’s intriguing. After sucking so many people dry, I hope he won’t disappoint me and let me punch him at least once.
Instead of throwing two punches, Levi was satisfied if he could throw one with all his might.
“All right. It’s a yes from me!” he yelled excitedly.
He meant that he had agreed to Karsten’s challenge, but his sudden announcement rendered everyone confused.
“Huh? Yes to what?” Zoey asked.
“I mean, I’ll go to The World Summit with you to see what Karsten is all about,” Levi hurriedly explained.
“Oh, you sounded like you’ve agreed to Karsten’s challenge,” Zoey said.
Everyone else thought the same.
“All right. Let’s depart now!”
With that, they began their journey to The World Summit.
Soon, news had spread like wildfire about how Dark Emperor, Killfinger, and the master of the ancient Garrison clan had accepted Karsten’s challenge.
It caused a great stir.
At once, Karsten and Lab of Gods heaved a sigh of relief, for they were afraid that the top three would say no to the challenge.
Everyone was looking forward to the fight.
Just the identities of Killfinger and the new head of the ancient Garrison clan were enough to rouse everyone’s curiosity.
If they were to come this time, their identities would be revealed.
That was what Lab of Gods wanted to see, too.
Though they had information about everyone, they had no idea who the top three fighters on the Divine Leaderboard were.
They really wanted to know!
This time, Karsten had challenged all three of them.
If he lost, at least they’d find out who the three fighters were.
It wouldn’t be that huge a loss to them.
As long as Lab of Gods had information on someone, they could control that person easily.
Only the unknown would threaten them.
The World Summit instantly became the center of attention, as people from all around the world hastily made their way here.
Chapter 2532 The Battle At The World Summit
Levi and his gang had arrived quick enough to get a great spot on the north side.
The view was excellent, for they could see the arena beside the Hall of Gods.
As everyone waited anxiously, they felt their chests tighten up.
“When will it start?” Levi questioned.
“Tomorrow, Boss. Everyone is here to get a good spot.”
“I wonder when Karsten and Dark Emperor will arrive. I can’t wait for the battle to begin!”
“Yes! I’m curious who Killfinger and the head of the ancient Garrison clan is…”
They started discussing eagerly.
Levi stayed put, for he had an idea.
But he had to meet Karsten in person first to see how strong the young man was.
Soon, more people gathered at The World Summit.
Some even got engaged in fights to get excellent spots for themselves.
In the end, thousands of corpses collapsed on the ground after intense fights.
The stronger beings or forces resorted to killing to get what they wanted!
The others looked on in an indifferent manner, for they were used to it.
These were indeed the times when only the fittest survive.
The weaklings had no choice but to endure being beaten up or killed by ridiculous excuses anytime!
It was something normal in this era.
Levi and the others got a great spot, so many people tried to take it away from them.
However, when those outsiders spotted Queenie and the disciples of Dark Emperor among them, they slunk away fearfully.
Thus, no one dared to challenge them.
Shortly after, some Provisional combatants and fighters ranked on the Divine Leaderboard appeared.
They were here to witness the historical fight.
A night passed by, and day arrived.
The next day, big shots gradually showed up at the scene—Daxon, also known as Divine Brigadier, Gabriel, Eustace, and other powerful fighters from all around the country.
Almost all the top one hundred fighters of the Divine Leaderboard had shown up.
No one would want to lose the opportunity to witness this incredible fight.
The atmosphere tensed up as time elapsed.
This battle concerned the future, for they might be advancing into a new era after this.
The top name on the stone plaque was at stake.
Would it still be Dark Emperor, or will Karsten take over that spot?
After a considerable time, it was almost time for the fight.
However, none of the four participants appeared in sight.
They were all clenching their fists, feeling nervous about what was about to happen.
Someone blurted out, “Did they decide not to come out of fear?”
Zoey declared arrogantly, “Don’t worry. Master must be here somewhere! Perhaps he has already made it here yesterday. He won’t be afraid of Karsten!”
“Right. No one can imagine how powerful Dark Emperor is! He’s the most mysterious being in this era. As he had defeated Daxon previously, there’s no wonder he’s the top fighter on the Divine Leaderboard! I think he’ll win the battle!”
“We just have to see how strong the other two fighters are…”
The audience discussed excitedly amongst themselves.
As the other three were nowhere to be seen, they wondered if the three of them refused to show up out of fear.
Karsten was different from other opponents.
He was capable of sucking people dry even though he wasn’t as strong as his opponents.
It was a horrifying skill!
Levi couldn’t stop himself from barking, “Nonsense. They are already here!”
I’m here, so it means that the three of them are here! I’ve been here since yesterday! I’m just waiting for Karsten to show up.
“Huh? They are here? That’s impossible?” Everyone glanced around in surprise.
Someone said, “Oh, it’s perfectly normal if we didn’t sense their arrival, for they are in the God class. Levi’s right!”
Zoey and the rest nodded profusely. “Dark Emperor must be here!”
Boom!
Right then, a powerful and terrifying aura engulfed the entire arena.
The World Summit trembled as a snowstorm arrived.
If not for the fighters who had been forcibly suppressing it, avalanches would’ve happened everywhere!
Karsten was here…
Chapter 2533 Too Weak
Karsten was different. He was no longer the person everyone used to know.
At that moment, he was downright terrifying.
The aura he exuded was overwhelming, and it felt as if it could break the entire world apart.
He was like a blazing sun and seemed impossible to get close to.
He browsed nonchalantly and looked like a relaxed God.
His stance inspired others to worship him, and some might even feel compelled to go on their knees.
That was what happened when one’s power reached its peak.
His simplest move could topple mountains and drain rivers.
“Earlier, I was worried about Karsten being too proud and challenging the top three fighters on the Divine Leaderboard by himself. Now, I think he has what it takes.”
“You’re right. I’m getting more and more excited. He’s going after all three of them simultaneously.”
“How strong will Karsten be if he absorbed the strength of all top three fighters on the Divine Leaderboard?”
When Karsten showed up, the crowd moved aside to make way for him.
Everyone went wild.
“That is too much. Is that how things are when one reaches the peak of the Divine Extraction Technique?” Daxon sighed.
He was probably the only person alive to have witnessed the highest level of both the Divine Extraction Technique and the Iron Golem Technique.
“He is too strong. That is not something we can deal with, and we will be drained if we go against him,” said Gabriel and the others.
Eustace shook his head and pointed out, “No, he hasn’t reached Level Nine of his skill, but he is close though. In fact, the slightest advancement can push him to reach Level Nine.”
“He’s terrifying as he is now. How crazy will things be if he manages to reach Level Nine?”
The crowd shook their heads, but Daxon and the others were secretly laughing.
It’s too bad he picked the wrong opponent.
It only took his opponent a few hours to achieve Level Nine of the Iron Golem Technique.
If a battle breaks out between a fighter that uses the Level Nine Iron Golem Technique and another fighter who has reached Level Nine of the Divine Extraction Technique, the battle would be a draw.
Unfortunately, his opponent is so talented that learning the Iron Golem Technique was no different from playing board games for him.
“Karsten is too powerful, and I am willing to elect him as the top fighter of the world.”
“That makes sense. He would win even if the battle were three against one. No one can possibly fight him in a one-on-one battle.”
Many of the top one hundred fighters on the Divine Leaderboard sighed in admiration.
Karsten was simply too strong at that moment.
If they were the ones fighting against Karsten, they would’ve fled at the mere sight of him.
We are not a match against him and will only be drained.
If the top one hundred fighters on the Divine Leaderboard were that worried, one could imagine how everyone else felt.
Still, many were also excited about the upcoming fight.
It will be the battle of the century. How I wish Dark Emperor and the others will be here soon. This will surely be a memorable battle.
“Is that something a proud fighter should say?”
Hiss!
Kirin and the others hissed aloud.
They were some distance away, but they could still sense the immense pressure. It felt as if they were getting their life force squeezed out of them.
That guy is way too strong.
Everyone shared the same thought. It felt as if an invisible mountain had crashed down on them and turned them into a gooey lump of minced meat.
It became more and more difficult for many to breathe.
They started worrying, but it felt as though it was too late to do anything, so they were also sweating profusely.
Karsten went to look for them some time ago, but they were in solitary training at the time, so they didn’t get to fight Karsten.
If they had, it was likely they would’ve become a part of Karsten’s strength because he would certainly have drained the energy in every single one of them. All that would’ve been left was an empty husk.
Wynona and the rest were the ones who were most surprised.
They had just met Karsten a few weeks ago, and he seemed like an ordinary guy at the time. Now, he was so powerful that he was like God.
The change is simply too drastic. I guess the Divine Extraction Technique really is the fastest and wildest way to become stronger. It works even better than the new technique we have been using.
“Wow… I’m starting to think he has a shot against my master…”
Earlier, Zoey had undying faith in Dark Emperor’s combat prowess and felt as though there was no way Karsten would be a match.
Seeing Karsten there got her to change her mind.
But he is way too strong!
“A shot? What are you talking about? He’s way too weak.”
A voice suddenly came at the worst possible time.
Chapter 2534 Utterly Disappointed
Everyone turned and saw Levi standing there.
Nevertheless, they were used to hearing those crazy words from Levi.
That’s just the way he talks. Heck, it’d be weird if he actually shuts up.
Levi had never agreed with anyone before.
Still, Zoey clamped Levi’s mouth shut as soon as he started speaking.
“I’m the one who’s weak, okay? He is so strong that he is challenging the top three fighters on the Divine Leaderboard and asking all three of them to fight against him at one go.”
Zoey was worried that others would overhear what Levi said. She was especially nervous about Karsten hearing that.
We’d be in trouble if Karsten gets mad. Seriously, how dare he calls Karsten weak. I will allow my husband to complain about anybody else’s strength, but he is not to complain about Karsten’s combat prowess. If he is considered weak, then no one on Earth would be regarded as a strong fighter. Why can’t my husband see how strong Karsten is? Geez, I can’t believe Levi actually called Karsten weak.
Unfortunately, Levi truly saw Karsten as a weakling.
He was a little disappointed… Well, actually, he’s very disappointed.
Levi was excited when he first heard about how Karsten had absorbed many fighters’ power and an incredible amount of energy.
However, he was disappointed immediately after he took one look when the latter showed up.
What the hell? He absorbed the strength of over a hundred thousand men, and he couldn’t find anyone strong in that crowd? Ugh, why did he absorb the strength of those puny nobodies? Does he really think he can challenge me with just that?
He may have absorbed the strength of many, but every single one of those men is rubbish. It might’ve been better if this punk had gone to Restricted Area 76 and absorbed the Gods’ strength. He will surely be a match against me if he absorbed all the Gods’ strength. In fact, he might even force me to go all out.
But… Seriously, he’s coming over and challenging me after he absorbed the strength of a bunch of useless garbage? That’s hilarious!
Levi would recognize Karsten’s strength and admit that the latter was much stronger than Gabriel and Daxon.
Karsten almost reached the top level of the Divine Extraction Technique, and that would make him a match against someone who had reached the top level of the Iron Golem Technique.
But he’s not there yet. I might get a teeny tiny bit excited if he actually achieves that.
Given Karsten’s state at the time, Levi could easily annihilate him.
In fact, Levi might have an easier time dealing with Karsten than with Gods.
Karsten was, at most, as powerful as a slightly above-average God. He couldn’t even defeat the more powerful ones.
Levi felt nothing but disappointment… utter disappointment.
He truly regretted traveling over a day earlier and waiting there. He was happily awaiting the arrival of a good opponent.
And this is what I am rewarded with…
Levi was so frustrated that he wanted to turn around and leave immediately.
A challenge? This puny weakling is so feeble, yet he thinks he can go after all three of my avatars? Oh, that’s absurd!
Karsten had reached the World Summit where the fight between the challenger and the record holder was supposed to take place.
He had his hands behind his back and acted as if he was better than everybody else.
He scanned around before demanding, “Dark Emperor, Killfinger, and the new head of the ancient Garrison Clan, where are all of you?”
The way he howled got the sky to grumble, and the aura he flushed out trembled the ground so much that it got many to start vomiting blood.
Unfortunately, no one responded to his words.
Dark Emperor and the others never showed up.
It was pin-drop silence.
The expression Zoey and the others had on their faces slowly shifted.
Shouldn’t someone be there? Why hasn’t anyone shown up? Are there some unexpected changes?
“Oy, where are you? Shouldn’t all three of you be here? Didn’t you already accept my challenge?”
Karsten was delighted and began laughing aloud.
His mission was to kill all three of them, so he had to get them to show up.
No one responded even after he had shouted all that.
“Hahaha, still nowhere to be found, huh? Are you too chicken to show up?”
Karsten raised his voice.
“Do you think that the top three fighters on the Divine Leaderboard are scared? Maybe they never even came here.”
“It’s possible. They are probably wary of Karsten’s Divine Extraction Technique and are keeping their distance despite their strengths.”
“No wonder Karsten challenged all three of them at once. He has what it takes to do something so crazy. Just look at how things are. The top three fighters on the Divine Leaderboard are too scared to show up.”
Everyone started discussing the matter.
Zoey couldn’t refute their words, even though she wanted to.
What if my master really is scared and hiding somewhere?
“Oy, are Dark Emperor and the others nothing but cowards? Come out and fight me now!”
Chapter 2535 What Is Written On The Stone Plaque
Karsten started taunting like there was no tomorrow.
“Are you lot scared of me? Hah, that is hilarious. The top three fighters on the Divine Leaderboard are too scared to show up. Why bother accepting my challenge if you are so afraid to fight me? Come on out! I know you’re here. Hey, it’s cool if you don’t want to fight. All you have to do is kneel and admit defeat!”
Karsten mocked endlessly, but Dark Emperor and the others never showed up. It seemed that no amount of insult or taunt would work.
“I guess Dark Emperor and the others have gone all out and decided to stay away. Maybe their ranking on the Divine Leaderboard doesn’t mean much to them. Surviving was more important…”
Everybody sighed.
Karsten, however, was a little lost.
He prayed that the three men he challenged would show up as quickly as possible so he could kill all of them.
What is going on? Not a single one of them showed up.
Even the people from Lab of Gods were confused.
Mr. X and his friends were particularly upset about the situation.
They had been waiting for that moment, and they were certain that they could destroy the obstacles in their path.
However, their opponents never showed up.
What could they do under those circumstances?
Mr. X and the others panicked.
Karsten was losing his cool as well.
He had no choice but to threaten. “Fine, if you three won’t show up, then I will just have to ruin the stone plaque with your names on it. I will stomp on your names and curse you endlessly.”
Karsten wanted to humiliate the men as much as possible to lure them out.
Unfortunately, no one showed up.
That was when Levi’s impatient voice came from the crowd. He said, “What is that punk yapping about? I’ll just head out to use the toilet.”
Levi’s friends and families didn’t even notice him leaving the crowd.
Those who didn’t know Levi was paid even less attention to him, so they definitely didn’t know that he wasn’t around.
Even after all that taunting comments, no one showed up.
That got the crowd worried.
Are the top three fighters on the Divine Leaderboard going to show up? Karsten has already insulted them to this extent, so why haven’t they revealed themselves?
Even Daxon and Gabriel were worried.
What the hell is Levi doing? Shouldn’t he show up and send such an arrogant opponent like Karsten straight to Hell? After all, there’s no way Levi fears Karsten.
The two men knew about how strong Levi was.
Levi should be on par with Karsten, so there is no need for the former to be scared. Given Levi’s style, he would’ve had Karsten pinned on the ground for insulting any one of his avatars. I don’t understand why Levi is nowhere to be seen, even after Karsten mocked him so harshly. It’s truly unbelievable!
Everyone instinctively turned to Levi, but he was nowhere to be seen.
Where did he go? Why did he leave? Did he actually flee? I mean… he doesn’t look like he’s going to face his challenger.
The crowd looked at each other and prayed that they could find an answer.
Still, no one showed up.
Seeing that, Karsten panicked.
“None of you will show up, huh? Okay, then I will stomp on your names and carve them out bit by bit. You three are so cowardly,” roared Karsten angrily.
His figure zipped to the entrance of the Hall of Gods.
Boom!
Karsten suddenly jumped and headed for the top of the stone plaque.
It didn’t take him long to reach his destination.
Those three names were right in front of him, and the sight of them stung his eyes.
Karsten wanted to wreck them right away, but more than that, he wanted his opponents to show up.
Boom!
In the end, he stood firmly on the stone plaque and shouted, “I will give you one last chance. Show yourselves right away or you will be the global laughingstock! You have ten seconds before I remove your names. This is your last warning! Come and fight me now or you will face mockery everywhere you go!”
Karsten’s aim was to force the men to show up, so he wasn’t in a hurry to attack.
It was also why he would stretch the show out as much as possible.
That idea coincided with Mr. X’s intentions.
“Three!”
Karsten started counting down, but his gaze suddenly shifted, and he noticed that there was something carved behind the stone plaque.
Is that a name?
Karsten stopped counting down and went to check on the stone plaque.
“Ga…”
“Gar… What?”
Chapter 2536 Stop Absorbing Rubbish
Only the person standing on the stone plaque could read what was carved behind it, but no one had the authority to do so.
In fact, no one dared to.
Karsten was the only one who had done that besides Levi.
When he got up there, he immediately learned a secret.
He tried to take a closer look.
“Garrison, Le…”
A voice came to Karsten before he could finish reading the words carved over there.
That prompted Karsten to look away immediately and hop down from the stone plaque.
That was when he saw someone standing in the Hall of Gods. It was Death Fiend.
Death Fiend was one of the top ten fighters on the Divine Leaderboard, so he had the authority to be there.
Karsten grinned as soon as he saw Death Fiend standing there.
The former planned on defeating Death Fiend before heading back to the stone plaque to finish reading the name carved behind the stone plaque.
I’ve got all the time in the world to do that, anyway.
“Ah, I know you. You’re one of Dark Emperor’s best fighters. What’s up? Are you here to challenge me?” sneered Karsten.
“Not at all. I am confident, but I also understand my limitations and I cannot defeat you. The only reason I came is to relay Dark Emperor’s message to you,” said Death Fiend.
Those words got everyone to turn their attention to Death Fiend.
A message from Dark Emperor?
“Alright then, tell me. I can’t believe that coward is so scared that he won’t even come and face me himself. Is he terrified of me?” asked Karsten.
“Afraid of you? You’re not worthy of that,” replied Death Fiend while grinning.
Karsten was about to lose his temper when Death Fiend handed a box over.
Boom!
Karsten hadn’t even accepted the box, but he could already sense the terrifying energy emanating from it.
This is stronger than anything I have ever seen. It is a hundred… no, a thousand times stronger than any of the gifts Lab of Gods has given me.
Oh my…
Karsten was already trembling.
His particular technique, the Divine Extraction Technique, made it so that he would be tempted to absorb every energy source he came across.
This is the strongest energy source I have ever seen.
Everyone was curious.
What is Death Fiend giving Karsten, and why is the latter so excited about it? Everything seems out of the norm.
“This is a crystal from Restricted Area 76, and it contains unimaginable energy. It will certainly give you a huge boost. Dark Emperor thinks that you are too weak to be his opponent, so he wishes for you to absorb more quality energy. Absorbing rubbish power would just be a waste of time, and he thinks that you are way too weak in your current state,” said Death Fiend.
After that, Death Fiend added, “He is asking you to absorb the energy in this crystal as quickly as possible and make yourself stronger. He’d also like to inform you that the Sacred Organization will be opening the doors to Restricted Area 76 to you. There are plenty of amazing resources there, and you can absorb as much as you want.”
Karsten was already drowning in delight at the time.
He had the crystal with him and was tempted to drain the energy immediately.
With energy like this, I can break through and reach Level Nine of the Divine Extraction Technique. Heck, I might even reach the top of Level Nine.
At that moment, all Karsten could think about was to break through and reach Level Nine. He had forgotten all about his mission to kill the top three fighters on the Divine Leaderboard.
I can kill them later. Besides, if I become stronger and reach Level Nine, it will make it so much easier for me to kill Dark Emperor and the others.
“Okay, then let’s postpone the fight. I will fight Dark Emperor and the others after I have absorbed the energy in this crystal and reach Level Nine,” replied Karsten.
After that, he turned to the crowd and announced, “Both Dark Emperor and I have some urgent matter to tend to, so the fight will be postponed to three days later.”
The second Karsten finished making his announcement, he hurried over to Restricted Area 76.
He was eager to absorb the energy from the crystal and rise to Level Nine of the Divine Extraction Technique.
He had forgotten about everything else.
The name on the back of the stone plaque never mattered to him, anyway.
Death Fiend left with a smile.
Everyone else was confused.
What’s going on? Why did Karsten suddenly postpone the fight? What happened?
Ahem! Ahem!
Levi returned from his trip to the toilet.
Chapter 2537 Karsten Is Too Weak
Levi actually went to hand the crystal to Death Fiend earlier.
Karsten was too weak, so Levi didn’t even want to head over in person to hand the latter the gift.
The crystal was actually the leftover from when Levi made the God Crusher.
It might only contain one-fifth of its original strength, but that energy was still unimaginable.
Levi saw how happy Karsten was when he got that crystal.
Karsten forgot all about his mission after receiving that crystal, and that means that it contained more energy than anything he has ever seen. It probably surpasses his wildest imagination. That is the only reason it has gotten him so excited.
To Levi, Karsten’s excitement was a sign of how weak the latter was.
Yep, Levi was annoyed by how weak Karsten was.
That was why the former wanted to give the latter the boost and was even willing to open the doors to Restricted Area 76.
All that was simply to help Karsten grow faster and stronger until he maxed out his power.
Only then would Levi be interested in a match against Karsten.
He’d be too weak otherwise. I’ll give him a boost so that he can at least withstand a single, full-blown punch from me. Ah, it’s so lonely being undefeatable.
Levi badly needed a worthy opponent, and he will risk it all to strengthen his opponent. The former was going all out to help the latter reach Level Nine of the Divine Extraction Technique.
No one understood how much effort Levi had put in.
He wanted an opponent so much that he was racking his brain to help his enemy grow stronger.
Just for that, he had decided to help strengthen Karsten.
“What is going on?”
Everyone was confused.
They didn’t understand what was going on because they were standing too far away to hear Death Fiend’s conversation with Karsten.
Hence, the spectators were unaware of what happened and had no idea why Karsten was that eager to leave after he made his announcement.
They weren’t the only ones who were confused, though. Mr. X and the other members of Lab of Gods were also eager to figure out what was going on.
Why did Karsten postpone the fight, and why did he leave?
Zoey and the others discussed endlessly, and their debate seemed intense.
“What are you guys talking about? Are you wondering why Karsten leave all of a sudden?” asked Levi.
“Yeah, we are. Do you know why?” asked Zoey icily.
Levi grinned and replied, “Of course I do. The Dark Emperor is upset with how weak Karsten is.”
“Huh?”
Everyone was stunned.
“Upset with how weak Karsten is?”
“How is that weak?”
Everyone was shocked.
“Wait, that can’t be it. If Dark Emperor had come out and complained that Karsten was too weak, the latter would’ve lost his temper on the spot. Why would Karsten leave after being dissed like that? It didn’t make sense,” said Floyd.
“That’s because…”
Levi was about to reply, but Death Fiend was quicker. The latter said, “That’s because Dark Emperor wants Karsten to become stronger. The former even gave the latter a crystal with incredible energy in it and open up Restricted Area 76. Dark Emperor wants Karsten to keep absorbing energy and keep growing until the latter becomes his most powerful self.”
Everyone understood what was happening after Death Fiend explained the situation.
Ah, so Karsten hurried off to become stronger. No wonder he seemed so eager earlier. Hold on, Dark Emperor is upset about how weak Karsten is? The former even worked hard to help the latter become stronger… What the hell? Is Dark Emperor being arrogant or is he too confident and actually sees Karsten as a weakling? Perhaps, there is something else entirely?
“It’s possible that Master actually thinks that Karsten is too weak. Plus, the top three fighters on the Divine Leaderboard will be attacking simultaneously, so it’s not surprising that he feels like they’re bullying him. That’s probably why he’s helping Karsten to get stronger,” said Zoey.
“Yes, that is possible. No one knows how strong the top three fighters on the Divine Leaderboard are. They must see Karsten as nothing but a young man. Moreover, he will be taking on all three of them on his own. Hence, they think that it wouldn’t hurt to help him grow.”
Most assumed that was what was going on.
“Ah, who cares? Let’s just wait for a few more days. If Karsten becomes stronger, the fight will be much more interesting.”
“It’s true. The fight is like a fine wine, and the longer we wait, the better the results.”
The crowd decided to stay there and wait.
They were waiting for the show that would be played in a few days.
“Hmm, that’s right. Let’s wait here. I’m curious, too!”
Levi rested in the room inside the temporary camp and had an eager expression on his face.
He truly wished that Karsten could become stronger and break his limit.
It might be right to say that Levi was more excited than everyone there.
Chapter 2538 They Are Worried
Almost everyone stayed after Karsten had left.
That was understandable since someone else would take their seats as soon as they leave.
What happened next was the endless arguments and battles.
That was how things were when martial artists ruled the world.
In the meantime, Levi started dozing off.
Zoey and the others were trying to figure out the issues with their own fighting skills while waiting for the upcoming battle.
They couldn’t be like Forlevia and forge her own unique path, after all.
They truly wanted to know what the Cardinal Hall was planning.
Why is Queenie making us wait here?
At Lab of Gods…
“We finally learned the truth, Mr. X. Karsten postponed the fight and left because Dark Emperor…”
Lucifer reported all of his findings to Mr. X.
“What? A crystal with energy surging out of it? That has got to be something from Restricted Area 76,” blurted Mr. X in astonishment.
He jumped suddenly.
“Yes, that is likely the case. More than that, Dark Emperor has opened the door to Restricted Area 76 for Karsten. The latter can absorb as much energy as he wants,” replied Lucifer.
“Huh? Has Dark Emperor gone insane? I have never met anyone like this before. Helping his enemy become stronger and giving Karsten a crystal that is so precious. What is going on?”
Mr. X and the others found that to be unbelievable.
It was illogical, and none of that should be happening… unless Dark Emperor had gone insane.
“Rumor is that Dark Emperor thought that Karsten is too weak, so the former wanted to strengthen the latter. Dark Emperor wanted Karsten to reach Level Nine before they fight. That’s how the rumor goes, and Dark Emperor is being described as someone who is beyond incredible,” said Lucifer.
“That’s bullsh*t! Dark Emperor is strong, but he’s not insane. Think about it. Why would anyone come up with ways to help his enemy become stronger? That would just make it that much more difficult for Dark Emperor to defeat Karsten. Let me give you an example. Think about Levi Garrison in his prime. We were definitely stronger than he was, but would any one of us try to help him become stronger so that he can fight us?” questioned Mr. X.
Everyone shook their head.
“Of course not. We’re not idiots. Levi will not get even the slightest boost from us. He’ll just use his newfound strength to attack us, and we’ll be his target.”
Mr. X nodded and pointed out, “Yes, that is how a normal human being would react. I am sure Dark Emperor is not retarded, is he?”
“That’s not possible. He won’t be that powerful if he’s retarded,” replied the crowd.
“That means that something must be off,” said Mr. X.
He began analyzing the situation and said, “Let’s assume that Dark Emperor actually thinks that Karsten is too weak and wants to boost the latter. What about the two other fighters on the Divine Leaderboard? Do they also think that Karsten is too weak? They never showed up, so how does anyone know what was in their mind?”
Mr. X’s words got everyone to think about the situation from another angle.
He’s right. Killfinger and the new head of the ancient Garrison Clan aren’t here. Can Dark Emperor really speak on their behalf? It’s not possible. They never cast their votes, so something must be off.
“Mr. X, have you deduced what is going on?” asked Lucifer.
“If those two never showed up but somehow agreed to Dark Emperor’s arrangement, then it can only mean one thing. They are scared. It’s not just Killfinger and the head of the ancient Garrison clan, though. The Dark Emperor is scared too. They know how unique and terrifying the Divine Extraction Technique is, and they know that they can’t beat Karsten. They might even be drained, so they kept hiding away and refused to show up.”
When Lucifer heard that, he asked, “But that doesn’t explain Dark Emperor’s actions. Why would he give Karsten the crystal and open up Restricted Area 76?”
Everyone turned to Mr. X.
“There’s only one explanation for that. The Dark Emperor is actually trying to butter Karsten up. The former is giving gifts to get on the latter’s good side!
“You see, the crystal contained a terrifying amount of energy, and most would only be able to absorb a smidge of that energy. “The Divine Extraction Technique is different, though. “It can fully absorb the energy in the crystal. “Dark Emperor is aware of that, and that is why he gave Karsten the crystal.
“The truth, however, is different.”
Chapter 2539 I Am Stronger Now
The more everyone listened, the more curious they got. Someone asked, “W-What’s the truth?”
“Well, Dark Emperor has given Karsten such an amazing gift and has opened the doors to Restricted Area 76. That would allow Karsten to grow stronger and be his best self. How can Karsten kill Dark Emperor and the others after accepting such lavish gifts?” said Mr. X.
His words got everyone around to gasp.
He’s right. Karsten owes them so much now. All the effort Karsten put in to reach Level Eight of the Divine Extraction Technique would mean nothing compared to this. In a way, Karsten owes Dark Emperor. That means that it would be difficult for Karsten to kill Dark Emperor when the time comes. That way, the raging conflict between them is now easily solved.
“There’s also the part where Karsten can easily break through and become his best self after he absorbed the energy in Restricted Area 76. He would rightfully be ranked number one on the Divine Leaderboard and would overwhelm Dark Emperor and the others.
“Yet, Dark Emperor and his friends wouldn’t be humiliated because they contributed to Karsten’s strength. In some way, they will be the masters who have helped Karsten rise to the top.”
“Ah, I understand it now. This will be different from being defeated. They will have no reason to fight. The Dark Emperor and his friends can rightfully step down and let Karsten be the top fighter on the Divine Leaderboard,” blurted Lucifer.
“Yes, that is how it is. The Dark Emperor made an extremely strategic move. He dissolved a conflict and saved three lives while still keeping their reputation intact. Hah, now that is one cunning move,” said Mr. X before he added, “I bet Dark Emperor and his friends still wouldn’t show up after three days.”
“Yeah, I think that’ll be the case.”
Everyone nodded in agreement.
“I am worried about Karsten, though. What if all those gifts softened him up and cause him to show mercy on Dark Emperor and the others? I also wonder if Karsten will continue obeying us after he reaches Level Nine,” said Mr. X who couldn’t help sighing.
“That’s true. Ah, that punk has already entered Restricted Area 76 and cut off all communications with us. It’s so frustrating that we can’t send our men into that place,” grumbled Lucifer angrily.
“Let’s wait and see. If he fails to kill Dark Emperor and the others, then he will have been nothing but a piece of trash to us. We built him up, and we can destroy him whenever we want,” replied Mr. X. His eyes glowed with a hint of murderous intent.
Lucifer and his friends chuckled.
Karsten’s strength might seem infinite to everyone else, but it didn’t matter how strong he would get. The Lab of Gods would always be able to kill him.
That showed just how scary Lab of Gods was.
Another rumor was soon shared all over the world. It was said that Dark Emperor and the others were actually afraid of Karsten.
The crowd began analyzing the situation.
The more they thought about it, the more it made sense.
Dark Emperor seems to be trying to butter Karsten up.
That was the thought running through everybody’s mind.
Karsten was lost in his own paradise at the time and was absorbing energy as if there was no tomorrow.
To his surprise, the energy within the crystal remained more or less constant, even though he had been draining it like crazy.
It was as if he had only managed to drink a few drops from an ocean.
The more Karsten absorbed the crystal, the more excited he became.
Holy moly, what will become of me if I absorb all of it?
Karsten continued absorbing the energy like a starving man in a buffet.
Crack!
Crack!
Lightning filled the dark sky to signal the birth of an extremely powerful fighter.
Absorb. Absorb it all!
Voom!
It took some time, but Karsten eventually managed to reach Level Nine of the Divine Extraction Technique.
He absorbed every joule of energy from the air and the ground.
In a way, his body was like a black hole, and all the energy in Restricted Area 76 was swirling toward him.
Even the energy from sources that were miles away was drawn over.
That was the power of the Level Nine Divine Extraction Technique.
Karsten continued absorbing the energy to solidify his stance and master Level Nine.
Time trickled by.
Finally, three days had passed.
Karsten suddenly flung his eyes open, and those eyes glowed with immense power.
He had reached a whole new level of power.
“I am stronger than ever, and I am here!”
Chapter 2540 What It Feels Like To Be A God
Karsten could feel an obvious change in him after he reached Level Nine.
It was as if he had everything under his feet, and he saw everyone else as nothing but maggots.
I feel like I am in control of the entire world.
That was what it felt like to be a deity.
It was the same sensation the Gods in Restricted Area 76 experienced.
They were too strong, and it created an illusion of them being holy beings living among mortals.
That was how Karsten felt at that moment.
He was no longer interested in Dark Emperor and the others anymore.
Before powering up, he wanted to challenge himself, but reaching Level Nine made him feel as though he would be facing three ants.
He lost all enthusiasm and passion.
Lab of Gods got in touch with Karsten immediately after the latter left Restricted Area 76.
The former insisted that Karsten shouldn’t be bothered by social cues and must kill Dark Emperor and the rest despite their generous gifts.
Karsten answered, “Don’t worry. I will deal with all three of them. Their blood will signal the birth of my newfound power, and I will make a ritual out of it. I have emerged a new man, and I must kill a few people to celebrate the occasion.”
Lab of Gods sighed a breath of relief after hearing Karsten’s affirmative response.
That would save them the trouble of cleaning up the mess.
Karsten walked away slowly.
He held the crystal tightly in his hand and sighed before saying, “What is this? The energy it contained is simply too great. I only managed to absorb a quarter of its energy even though I have been working hard these past three days. It will take me some time before I can finish absorbing everything in it!”
The news of Karsten leaving Restricted Area 76 was shared everywhere.
The entire world cheered once more, and the focus was mostly on World Summit.
Everyone got excited, and their spirit was lifted.
That caused a ruckus and woke Levi up.
“What’s wrong? Did something happen?” asked Levi.
“Karsten has left Restricted Area 76, and the rumor is that he has reached Level Nine of the Divine Extraction Technique,” replied Zoey.
“The annoying thing is that everyone thinks that my master only gave Karsten that crystal to butter Karsten up. They say that my master is scared and wants to make it difficult for Karsten to attack,” added Zoey.
“You know, I actually think that makes sense. Why else would someone help their enemy become stronger? This is way beyond a friendly boost.”
“That’s right. The Dark Emperor is strong, but I don’t think he is that strong.”
“Yeah, he must be scared of Karsten and is bowing down to the latter.”
Kirin and the others shared their opinions on the matter.
Zoey was the disciple, but she couldn’t defend her master either.
“Oh, puh-lease. That Karsten can’t scare anyone. Come help me up. I’d like to see how much he has improved,” said Levi.
He was starting to get a little excited.
If Karsten absorbed all of the energy in the crystal and the resources in Restricted Area 76, his Divine Extraction Technique should be at its best…
That would be almost on par with Level Nine of the Iron Golem Technique, and that would at least pique Levi’s interest.
That was why Levi was excited.
“Everyone is saying that Dark Emperor and his friends are still too scared and will continue cowering in the dark.”
“Honestly, I agree with their statements. Dark Emperor and the others will never show up and will put Karsten on the top of the Divine Leaderboard without a fight. That way, everyone can leave unscathed.”
Everyone started discussing the matter.
Levi ignored all of them, though. He simply exited the room.
Everything was already in a mess outside the room.
Karsten was approaching the place as well.
He had kept his aura contained, and it was no longer as intimidating as it was earlier. However, his posture suggested that he was much stronger.
He had truly grown exponentially.
It was as though he had changed into a different person.
The power from Level Eight of the Divine Extraction Technique was completely different from Level Nine of the same technique.
At that moment, Karsten was considered a skilled fighter.
He saw everyone as a lesser being.
“Hmm!”
Karsten had constrained his aura, but everyone could still sense the pressure. It was almost as strong as the pressure they sensed three days ago, and it was so overwhelming that some were having a hard time breathing.
It was as if Karsten had turned into a black hole, and his mere presence threatened to absorb the spectators’ soul.
They could feel an inclination to walk forward.
That got their expression to change sharply, and they sweated nervously.
Karsten had truly frightened them.
Astonished gasps filled the place.
“That’s it? That’s all you can do?”
A man with a different opinion blurted his thoughts.