Klaus secured the third-place position as his official standing in the competition.

Following the battle's conclusion, he walked back to the spectator's area, joined by Arthur.

"Nice job," Shade commented to Klaus, offering a smile.

"Thanks," Klaus replied, his own smile mirroring Shade's sentiment.

Sage had already returned to the arena field before any of the demigods could discern his movements.

"Congratulations, Klaus Walker," Sage pronounced, pausing momentarily before continuing. "With that concluded, I shall now proceed."

The demigods directed their attention toward Sage as he began to unveil his intentions.

"Firstly, all the Gods, including myself, have arranged a special reward for the demigods who have advanced to the semi-finals. We acknowledge that this might be disheartening for those who didn't make the cut. However, this initiative is designed to inspire those who have demonstrated exceptional prowess in the tournament."

His words carried a hint of disappointment for those who fell short, yet they recognized the logic in rewarding those who had proven themselves as the tournament's elite. Following a brief pause, Sage continued.

"Now, I request the presence of X."

The demigods turned their attention to X as he rose silently from his seat, responding to Sage's call.

"Excellent," Sage began anew. "Congratulations, X, for emerging as the Divine Tournament's victor. We have agreed upon the benefits that will be conferred upon you. First and foremost, your overall capabilities will be augmented by five percent, further enhancing your already formidable strength. Secondly, you shall be granted the privilege of an audience with the gods of Order, known as Halo and Horns. This encounter will allow you to glean any desired information from them."

"Halo and Horns?" Rose inquired.

"They're these created gods representing Positive and Negative Order. They apparently possess extensive knowledge," Klaus explained to her in a hushed tone.

"You know them?" Rose inquired, surprised by Klaus's acquaintance with these divine beings.

"I met them a few days before the tournament began," Klaus clarified.

As their conversation unfolded, Sage patiently awaited a response from X, who took a moment before addressing the God.

"Power without struggle is meaningless to me," X asserted. "So I will have to decline."

Sage's face lit up with a knowing smile upon hearing X's decision.

"Are you certain?" Sage inquired. "Please understand that all the rewards are intertwined. Declining means you will forfeit the opportunity to meet with Halo and Horns."

"That holds no significance to me," X replied succinctly.

"Very well," Sage acknowledged X's choice before X returned to his seat.

Sage then proceeded with the announcement. "However, I am still obliged to grant the reward. Since you've chosen to decline, the reward will now be awarded to the tournament's runner-up."

Sage turned his gaze away from X's location and pronounced a name.

"Lance Knight," Sage began. "You are honored as the runner-up of the Divine Tournament, and as such, you shall now receive the rewards originally intended for the first-place victor."

Lance rose from his seat upon hearing his name, but Sage's words left him in a moment of contemplation. After a brief pause, Lance responded.

"I apologize, but I cannot accept these blessings," Lance stated firmly. "As long as I could not emerge as the victor, I consider myself undeserving of such rewards."

Lance paused once more, reflecting on his decision before adding, "Especially since I renounced my beliefs and still failed, any reward would only taint my pursuit of redemption."

Sage's smile persisted as he responded, "A perfect alignment with your father's narrative," revealing his knowledge of Lance's mindset.

"And that is where you come in play, Klaus Walker," Sage addressed Klaus, shifting his attention.

The unfolding events seemed almost preordained, making the earlier battle for third place take on a deeper significance. Klaus stood up as Sage fixed his gaze upon him.

"As previously explained, the rewards originally designated for the first-place victor will now be offered to you, and the choice to accept or decline is yours," Sage clarified to Klaus.

Amidst the hushed silence that enveloped the arena, all eyes were fixed on Klaus, who stood in contemplation. Although he had pondered the allure of receiving the benefits, he was equally aware of his place as a non-winner. Klaus had already reached a conclusion.

"I accept," his voice finally broke the quietude.

Inwardly, Klaus understood his perceived unworthiness, yet he comprehended the significance of these rewards. His role as a demigod had transitioned from personal gain to safeguarding those in need. This perspective compelled him to suppress his pride and embrace assistance, irrespective of his convictions.

He mused that such enhancements might have prolonged his survival during the battle with X. Though, after witnessing the finals, he harbored doubts about whether these advantages would suffice to secure victory over such a formidable opponent.

Upon hearing Klaus's unexpected response, astonishment rippled through the demigods. Even Shade hadn't anticipated his brother's acceptance, given his insight into Klaus's character. However, upon discerning the rationale beneath Klaus's choice, a smile touched Shade's lips.

"His dedication to being a demigod is deeper than I'd thought," Shade mused internally, content with his sibling's decision.

"Are you certain, Klaus Walker?" Sage's inquiry prompted a nod from Klaus. This gesture affirmed his selection for the bestowed rewards.

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"Then you shall be the recipient of the power boost," Sage declared, his voice resonating with authority. "Furthermore, you will be granted the privilege of meeting Halo and Horns."

Recollections of his previous encounter brought forth a frustrated sigh from Klaus, who held mixed sentiments about this impending meeting, especially with Halo.

Acknowledging this dynamic, Sage continued his exposition.

"Now that this is settled, I shall elucidate the special reward alluded to earlier for the semifinalists." Sage proceeded to unveil the recipients of this unique benefit.

"X, Lance Knight, Arthur Knight, Klaus Walker..."

Upon hearing their names, the four demigods rose in unison, attentive to Sage's continuation.

"You four are distinguished as the demigods who advanced the furthest in the tournament. The Gods recognize your efforts and wish to ensure they are not in vain. Thus, your reward encompasses a journey to Under World. This expedition will make you the first mortals from Main World to traverse Under World."

The revelation elicited astonishment across the demigods, surpassing their expectations given the mystery surrounding Under World.

"Is that even possible?" Ace's incredulity was palpable.

"Damn, so lucky," Riley interjected, acknowledging the magnitude of the bestowed privilege.

While anticipation gleamed in the eyes of the demigods, a tinge of envy was palpable among those who hadn't qualified. Yet, Klaus's response held a distinct undertone.

Exhausted from rigorous training and the intense competition, Klaus yearned for a respite to recharge his weary mind. The ceaseless demands of being a demigod weighed upon him. Even though this opportunity was a reward, it implied a commitment to be at a specific place at a specified time. Yet Klaus also acknowledged that such was the nature of being a demigod, and he bore this mantle with unwavering resolve.

However, Sage was attuned to Klaus's inner turmoil.

"The trip is scheduled two weeks from now, giving the four of you ample time to prepare. We understand the strain that training puts on mortals like yourselves. You've performed exceptionally, and we want you to have a well-deserved break to unwind and decide how to spend your time," Sage explained, his words aimed at granting them respite.

Sage's gaze returned to Klaus, his tone softening. "Your meeting with the gods of Order will be a week from today, Klaus Walker. This should allow you enough personal time before the engagement."

Klaus's face relaxed, a small smile gracing his lips. With Sage's considerate timing, a weight seemed to lift from his shoulders as he settled back into his seat, a sense of ease washing over him.

"As of now, you're free to enjoy your time in Higher World without any interruptions until the next event is revealed, likely many months from now," Sage concluded warmly, offering the demigods the gift of unencumbered choice.

With Sage's final words, he bade them farewell and departed for the domain of the Gods.

Once Sage left, Klaus directed his attention to Rose, who was seated beside him. Her eyes were fixed on him, her expression a mix of jealousy and genuine admiration.

"Damn, I'm so jealous that you get to experience Under World," Rose remarked playfully, her tone laced with sincerity. "But, honestly, you deserve it."

Klaus returned a grateful smile, appreciating her sentiments. "Thank you."

As the trio—Klaus, Shade, and Rose—continued their animated conversation, the remaining demigods began to disperse from the arena, each carrying their own thoughts and plans for the newfound freedom.

Shade noticed an intriguing transformation in Klaus's demeanor throughout their talk. A rare occurrence of Klaus's frequent smiles during their interaction prompted a smile to play on Shade's lips. He recognized the shift in his brother, realizing that Klaus was gradually embracing openness and connection with others.

Before their departure, it was time for Klaus to retrieve his belongings from his apartment. With the decision to stay in the Main World for a while, except for the scheduled meeting with the gods of Order, he felt the need to ensure he had everything he required.

Upon entering his room, Klaus methodically gathered his belongings, preparing for the upcoming journey. Exiting his room, he caught sight of the door opposite his ajar. Peering in, he spotted Trent seated on his bed, his expression dim.

Initially, Klaus considered respecting Trent's privacy, but an inexplicable sense of concern urged him to step forward and inquire about what might be troubling his fellow demigod.

Upon entering Trent's room, Klaus's presence immediately caught Trent's attention. The shift in Trent's expression from solemn to cheerful was noticeable, as he initiated a conversation.

"Hey, friend," Trent greeted Klaus with a warm smile.

"Hey, Trent," Klaus responded, acknowledging the change in mood before diving into his question. "You don't seem like you're planning to return to Main World. Is there a reason for that?"

Trent's smile faded slightly as Klaus's question stirred up some underlying concerns. Nevertheless, he felt compelled to share his situation.

"It's because I can't go there," Trent confessed, his voice carrying a mix of frustration and resignation. He went on to explain, "I have no memories of Main World. Whenever I step onto the platform to return, my consciousness blanks out until I'm back here in Higher World for another event."

Klaus's heart sank at Trent's revelation. The implication that Trent was essentially losing his experience between his departures and returns was distressing. Trent further explained that he hadn't ventured back to Main World since the Cosmic League concluded. The situation was deeply troubling, but Klaus felt like there had to be a way.

Pausing for a moment to gather his thoughts, Klaus contemplated possible solutions to Trent's dilemma. He brainstormed for a few moments before a potential plan took shape in his mind.

Klaus recalled that demigods could transport to any specific location using coordinates, even if they hadn't physically visited that place before. Alternatively, they could visualize a location in their minds to transport there, but as long as they had been to said location before. Given this understanding, if Trent had the coordinates of the spot where Klaus typically materialized upon his return to Main World, it would enable Klaus to unravel the mystery behind Trent's periods of unconsciousness between departures and returns.

Klaus proposed that they seek assistance from IV, his instructor, who might have access to the specific coordinates needed. The two of them swiftly made their way to the training facility, where they met up with IV and explained their predicament.

IV, understanding the reason for the situation, took a moment to retrieve the precise coordinates. Happy to assist with their endeavors, IV handed Klaus and Trent a piece of paper bearing the valuable information.

Equipped with the coordinates, Klaus and Trent headed to the transportation podium located at the city's epicenter. There, Klaus handed over the coordinates to Trent and provided him with clear instructions on how to use them.

Klaus instructed Trent to hold the coordinates in his mind before initiating the transportation, allowing him to arrive at the designated location. Klaus assured Trent that he would go first and wait for him on the other side to ensure his safety. Although Trent was still apprehensive, he agreed to the plan, filled with hope for its success. A few moments later, Klaus stood on the transportation platform and returned to Main World.

Upon opening his eyes, Klaus found himself at the expected location. At this point, the usual headache that often plagued Klaus after the process of transportation was barely noticeable or even non-existent. With this in mind, he chose to disregard it entirely, focusing instead on awaiting Trent's arrival.

As seconds stretched into minutes, Klaus's concern deepened with each passing moment. Worries began to plague his mind, and he feared that their plan might have failed, leaving Trent stranded. Klaus contemplated returning to Higher World to investigate the situation further. He also had a lingering feeling that he might have made a mistake. He realized that he could have used the opportunity when he asked IV for the coordinates to inquire about Trent's situation and gain a clearer understanding.

However, just as he was about to initiate his return, a slow materialization process began before his eyes, and Trent gradually appeared before him. A sense of relief and accomplishment washed over Klaus as Trent's transportation solidified, dispelling his earlier anxiety.

"It worked," Klaus whispered in surprise and satisfaction.

Approaching Trent, Klaus inquired about his well-being. But as their eyes met, a smile blossomed on Trent's face. With a look of astonishment, Trent scanned his surroundings, taking in the scene. Trent stepped out of the alleyway into a bustling street, surrounded by the sounds of vehicles and the chatter of passersby. His expression mirrored his astonishment as he took in the scene.

"Wow," Trent breathed in disbelief as he continued to glance.

The ambient sounds of the city filled the air, mingling with the hushed conversations of people going about their daily routines. With an air of curiosity, Trent voiced the question that had likely occupied his thoughts since his arrival.

"Is this... Earth?"