Rise Online: Return of the Legendary Player



The next day, Klaus woke up with a mixture of anxiety and apprehension. He knew he would face the consequences of missing his training session with Miss Nairn and would still have to explore the inside of a monster later. Still, he got out of bed and went to the communal bathroom to take a shower and get dressed.

As he tidied himself up, Klaus thought of a plausible excuse to explain his absence. He did not want to irritate the demanding coordinator of the archery department even more.

In the cafeteria, he found Andrew and his other roommates, who were also worried about the possible consequences. They sat together and shared some ideas, trying to find a solution to face Miss Nairn's wrath. After breakfast, Klaus and his friends split up and went to do their mandatory classes. When lunchtime finally arrived, they gathered again to go to the department hangar.

When they got there, they felt an air of tension hanging over the room as they awaited Miss Nairn's arrival. Not to be outdone, Klaus and Andrew immediately began practicing to make up for the previous day.

She finally entered the room, her gaze firm and determined. Her serious countenance made it clear that she was not pleased with the students' lack of commitment.

"Miss Nairn, we're sorry we didn't show up for practice last night," Klaus began, keeping his voice steady. "Something came up and we were unable to attend."

Miss Nairn looked at them with a frown. "An unforeseen event? I don't think that's a valid excuse. Training is a key part of your development for the tournament. I wouldn't mind you missing it if you weren't on the tournament team, but you've made a commitment to me and your colleagues."

Klaus felt even more tense, knowing he would have to work hard to make amends. "We understand the importance of training, Miss Nairn, and we are willing to make up for our absence. We accept any punishment you deem appropriate."

The instructor stared at them for a few moments, analyzing the sincerity in her words. "Very well. You will have to perform a number of extra exercises during this week to make up for your absence. And I hope not to have any more commitment problems in the future."

Klaus and his friends nodded, relieved to have the opportunity to redeem themselves.

"Also, Klaus, I understand you've joined the fencing department's tournament team." Isabella Nairn stated, calmer now.

"What?!!!" David and Nathan asked, surprised, getting up from the couch.

Klaus nodded. "Yes, I talked to their Captain and got to know the department building. They saw potential in me and I see no reason not to accept considering I will learn more."

Crossing her arms, the coordinator nodded. "I agree, this is a good opportunity for you. However, remember that your priority should be the department that gave you the opportunity to be here and that you yourself chose. I will not tolerate you choosing to train with them instead of training with us."

"Yes, ma'am. Archery is still my main focus, there is nothing to worry about."

"That's good to hear, now you and Andrew should start your training if you don't want me to not put you through some lecture on hierarchy, discipline or leadership." Isabella said, hurrying the boys along.

By breakfast time, Klaus and Andrew were completely drenched in sweat after an intense training session. They headed to the cafeteria to recharge their energy before the next activities of the day.

As they helped themselves to food, Nathan asked Klaus:

"So you joined the fencing team, Klaus?"

"Yes, I decided to give it a try and I think I'll enjoy the experience," Klaus replied, smiling.

Nathan looked puzzled. "And what does this mean for our archery team? You will still be dedicated to it, right?"

Klaus nodded. "Of course! I don't want to embarrass myself at the tournament. The fencing team is an additional opportunity to hone my general combat skills."

"So that's why you guys were so late yesterday?" David inquired, which made Klaus wonder. David inquired, which caused Klaus and Andrew to exchange glances.

"Yes, exactly. I just went to accompany him." Andrew agreed.

David and Nathan exchanged a look of relief, apparently satisfied with Klaus' answer. They knew how important the tournament was to everyone, and having a member of the team devote themselves to another sport could cause concern. As they talked and enjoyed their meal, Klaus felt grateful for his friends' understanding. They were always supportive of his decisions, just as they had been when he first started dating Ashley.

Deep down, Klaus knew that more than ever balancing his obligations with the archery and fencing team with his RO activities would be a challenge, but he was determined enough. He had a clear goal in mind: to become an exceptional archer and make it to level 200. That was not far away.

With that thought in mind, Klaus finished his meal, got up from the table and said goodbye to his colleagues. Then he walked to the city center and found Ashley, his girlfriend, in a cozy café. She greeted him with a warm smile, and Klaus felt instantly comforted by her presence.

They sat at a reserved table, and Klaus shared with Ashley the news about the archery department and his decision to join the fencing team.

Ashley listened intently, showing genuine interest. She was always supportive of Klaus and quite rational, so it was a comfort to him to see that she was happy to see him so excited about his goals.

As they enjoyed their drinks, they also chatted about other matters, leaving Klaus a little aside, such as the dagger dispute association. In the end, as they left the café, Ashley inquired:

"Are we going to the movies tonight? There's a new action movie I'd like to see. It would be a great way to relax after your busy day." She ran her hand over her chest.

Klaus felt a tightness in his chest at the sight of her lustful gaze, but he had to deny it. "Is it okay if it's tomorrow? I'm going to accompany Andrew somewhere today."

"Oh, that's fine. Then we'll talk later and arrange the time for tomorrow." She said, sounding a little disappointed.

"I promise I will reward you tomorrow then." Klaus stated, which made a silly smile appear on his face.

So, after this brief encounter, Klaus looked at the horizon and saw the sun setting. That meant he still had a few hours free, which he obviously wanted to use in Rise Online.