The Last Paragon in the Apocalypse

Klaus clearly wasn't expecting the secret Cynthia held to be this huge. She had names of powerful figures aiding the Dark Order. That information alone could dismantle their organization if used wisely. Cynthia Ross was both valuable and dangerous at the same time.

But one might wonder: why hasn't Cynthia made any attempt to use this information to her advantage? She could have used it to destroy the Dark Order, so why hasn't she?

That's because she is a mother, a mother who cares about her children. But also, it's because she is dealing with the Dark Order.

They were dangerous and far too powerful for just her to take them down alone. Klaus understood that she wouldn't act, especially with her children still growing up. Doing something as drastic as going against the Dark Order would only put them in danger.

The Dark Order was aware of this hesitation. They didn't attack her with full force—at least, not until Klaus destroyed their safehouse, inadvertently implicating his mother-in-law.

However, they also held back because they knew the kind of woman Cynthia Ross was; she would die without making a scene. So instead, they made just enough noise to let her know they were watching

"So you have names of people supporting them?" Klaus asked, seeking confirmation before taking any action.

"Yes. I have names and the networks they use for their operations. And before you ask why I haven't tried to bring them down, you should know that I couldn't. They are dangerous, and I was just hiding, making sure my babies grow up without the Dark Order targeting them."

"I understand," Klaus said, nodding slowly. He could feel the weight of her words, realizing the depth of her struggle.

"However, this is good for me. You don't have to worry, Mother-in-law. I will handle them from here on out. But I will need a favor from you," Klaus said.

"I'm listening," she replied, curiosity sparking in her eyes.

"Are you willing to go on a picnic with me? Let's treat it as a two-day vacation—just you and me," Klaus asked with a playful smile.

Cynthia raised an eyebrow at his suggestion. "Hey, you're not setting your sights on your mother-in-law, are you?"

"Not really, but what if I am? Do you think I'd have a chance?" Klaus grinned, his teasing tone lightening the mood.

Cynthia chuckled, her initial surprise fading. "You think you can charm me that easily, young man?"

"I believe I have a shot," Klaus smirked.

"So tell me, why do you want to go on a picnic with me?" Cynthia asked, a hint of suspicion in her tone.

"Let's just say I've just found out that their entire assassin network in the eastern region has been deployed to take you out, and the hit is due in two days," Klaus said, watching as Cynthia tensed.

"So you want to use me as bait to flush them out?" she asked, her frown deepening.

"Bait is such a harsh word, Mother-in-law," Klaus replied, raising his hands defensively. "Think of it as a strategic opportunity. We'll draw them out and deal with them before they can even get close to you."

Cynthia's expression softened slightly, but concern lingered in her eyes. "And what if they find out about this plan? It could put you in danger, too."

"I can handle myself," Klaus assured her, his tone firm. "But I need you to trust me on this. If we make it seem like you're vulnerable, they'll show themselves. We can't let them succeed."

She studied him for a moment, weighing her options. "And if I say no?"

Klaus shrugged. "Then we continue living in fear, and you remain a target. It's a risk, but one worth taking if it means keeping you safe in the long run."

Cynthia sighed, knowing he had a point. "Alright, Klaus. I'll do it, but only because I want to protect my family. Just promise me you'll be careful, my daughters are head over heels when it comes to you, I don't want them heartbroken if something happens to you.."

"You have my word," he replied, a genuine smile spreading across his face. "Now, let's plan this picnic. I'll make sure it's worth your while."

After cooking a few things together and feeling satisfied with the results, Klaus left the kitchen. As soon as he stepped outside, Daven Ross appeared in the garden.

"He does have a point," Daven said, leaning against a tree. "Using you as bait to flush them out would be ideal. Since the entire assassin network for the Dark Order in the eastern region has been deployed, taking them out will give you a few months of breathing space before they make any further moves."

Cynthia crossed her arms, her expression conflicted. "I understand that, but it's still dangerous. What if something goes wrong?"

"You have to trust him, and I will be around if anything goes sideways," Daven said, pulling her into his embrace.

"You can't," Cynthia replied. "This has to go well, and your presence might draw attention from unknown sources. This can only be between me and Klaus."

Daven frowned, concern etching deeper lines on his face. "Cynthia, you're putting yourself at risk. I can't just stand by and let you face this alone."

"I know you care, but this isn't just about me," she insisted, her voice steady. "If we want to keep our family safe, we need to be strategic and discreet. I can't have you in the shadows, making it obvious that something is going on."

"But what if something happens? What if you need backup?" Daven pressed, his worry evident.

"I'll manage," she assured him. "Klaus has a plan, and I trust him. He knows what he's doing. We must keep this quiet. If the Dark Order catches wind of our intentions, it could ruin everything."

Daven sighed, running a hand through his hair in frustration. "You're right, but it's hard for me to let go. I just want to protect you."

Cynthia softened at his concern, placing a hand on his shoulder. "And I appreciate that more than you know. Just trust me to handle this. If I need help, I promise I'll reach out."

"Okay," Daven relented, though doubt lingered in his eyes. "But I want to be kept in the loop. I can't help but worry."

"I will, my love," Cynthia said softly, looking into his eyes.

Daven chuckled, his expression lightening. "And make sure that brat doesn't get any funny ideas. He's already stolen two beautiful flowers from us; I can't have him stealing my wife, too!" He smiled playfully at her.

Cynthia smirked, a glint of mischief in her eyes as she met his gaze. "I can't make any promises." The two laughed and Cynthia went about preparing for her vacation picnic with Klaus.

After getting home, Klaus informed his mother that he would be going out and would be back in two days. She opened her mouth to ask more questions, but Klaus quickly assured her it wasn't another hunt in the Forbidden Zone. That simple statement made her smile.

However, the War Goddess didn't buy his subtle lie for a second. Klaus entered his room and went to take a bath. When he came out, he found the War Goddess waiting for him, her gaze sharp as a dagger.

"Tell me everything," she demanded, her eyes narrowing.

Then she froze. In her haste to get to the bottom of whatever Klaus was cooking, she had neglected to consider that he had just been bathing and might come out naked.

Gulp... she swallowed hard.

"Well, you like what you see?" Klaus said, flashing an evil grin. Miriam tensed and then like a smoke, she disappeared from his room, reappearing in Klaus's mom's room with a deep blush.