The Rise of a Master: It Starts With Rejection

Chapter

888

Felix nodded-that was precisely what he was thinking.

"It's because headquarters got approval to offer the ultimate prize to the champion,

Xena said mysteriously.

She leaned forward and whispered, "It's Lone Paragon."

Xena thought Felix would react wildly. But to her shock, he seemed unimpressed. Have you never heard of Lone Paragon?"

"Should I have?" Felix asked flatly.

Xena sighed. "Fine. I only learned about it myself after this tournament was finalized. Lone Paragon is an ancient secret technique passed down through the ages. It's been safeguarded by the country for centuries and has never leaked out.

An ancient technique that was valued by the country? It had to be extraordinary,

then.

11noveldrama

"If it's truly that remarkable, wouldn't the champion become a target for everyone? I doubt this tournament allows contestants to use fake identities or disguise themselves, right?" Felix asked.

It was an important question. If he became the focus of countless ambitious warriors, his life would be at risk, no matter how skilled he was.

"Of course not," Xena replied. "This is an official event. Fake identities, aliases, or disguises are strictly forbidden. However, Lone Paragon has a few unique traits, so you don't need to worry about becoming a target. Do you think the headquarters are that careless?"

She sipped her tea before continuing, "First once someone begins learning Lone Paragon, it transforms into a streak of light and disappears. Its next location, or who might discover it next, remains completely unknown.

"Second, any warrior who learns it cannot pass it on to another person, whether through force or voluntary."

"These traits are widely known among the older generation of martial artists," Xena added.

That made sense. With such safeguards, Felix could compete without worrying about repercussions.

"Prepare yourself," Xena said, "The news about the tournament will spread throughout the martial arts world today. It officially starts in one week."

As she stood to leave, Felix asked one more question, "Why are they suddenly bringing out Lone Paragon? There must be a reason."

Xena paused. "Perhaps... a storm is brewing".

After she left, Felix remained seated, his thoughts consumed by Helena. He still found it hard to accept that she was truly gone.

He didn't know how much time had passed when his phone buzzed with an unfamiliar number. "Hello, brat! Miss me?"

It was Gerald! Felix's heart raced. There was so much he wanted to say.

"Mr. Hoffman! How's Benjamin?"

"Don't worry about him. I'm still researching. He hasn't suffered and even seems grateful to me. Who knows? Maybe I'll find a way to free him," Gerald replied. That was reassuring.

"Listen up! The country is hosting a martial arts competition in a week. You'd better sign up for it. The grand prize is Lone Paragon. I even want it myself!"

Even Gerald wanted it? That confirmed how extraordinary Lone Paragon must be. Xena hadn't mentioned its full details. Felix still felt like he was grasping at straws when understanding it.

"Mr. Hoffman, I know Lone Paragon is a secret technique, but what else can you tell me about it?" Felix asked.