Rise Online: Return of the Legendary Player

"Klaus! Ah, what are you doing here at this hour?"

Klaus opened both eyes, adjusting to the sunlight shining brightly on the square. Lara Cavalcanti approached with a warm smile, her hair in a ponytail swaying with every step. Her gym uniform highlighted her athletic form, and the vibrant energy she exuded was unmistakable.

"Lara," Klaus replied, returning her smile. "Up early for training?"

She laughed softly, sitting down next to him on the bench. "Yes, practice makes perfect, right? And you, what are you doing here so early?"

Klaus sighed, his shoulders relaxing as he looked up at the blue sky. "I needed some time to clear my head. I couldn't sleep properly and it's been days since I've had some good sunshine."

Lara tilted her head, watching him carefully. "Yes, I understand. Have you been playing that game everyone says you're so good at? Don't let it affect your real life."

Klaus looked at Lara, feeling a wave of gratitude for her support. "Thanks, Lara. Hearing that is nice too."

She smiled, patting him on the shoulder. "I'm always here for you, buddy. And speaking of support, I hear Isabella is planning a meeting tonight. Will you be there?"

Klaus nodded, feeling a little more cheerful. "Yes, I'll be there. I think I'll have a bit more time now than I've had for the last few weeks."

Lara stood up, stretching her arms above her head. "Great! In the meantime, how about some breakfast? I'm sure you must be starving after an all-nighter of gaming."

Klaus laughed, getting up too. "You know me well, Lara. Come on, I think a good breakfast is just what I need."

They walked together across the square, the conversation flowing easily between them. Klaus felt grateful to have friends like Lara, who supported him in both the real and virtual worlds. As they made their way to the campus cafeteria, he realized that, despite the challenges he faced, he was not alone. And that gave him the strength to carry on.

The cafeteria was beginning to fill up, students moving between the tables, laughing and chatting as they chose their breakfasts. Klaus and Lara picked up their trays and helped themselves to a variety of dishes: scrambled eggs, toast, fresh fruit and hot coffee. They found a table near the window, where the morning sunlight came in softly, creating a cozy atmosphere

Sitting down, they began to eat in silence, enjoying the moment of tranquillity before the day really began. Klaus took a sip of coffee, feeling the warmth of the drink spread through his tired body.

"So," Lara began, breaking the silence, "what are your plans for today apart from the department meeting?"

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Klaus reflected for a moment before answering. "I have classes and I think I'm going to spend some time studying. I'm a bit behind on the course readings for my elective. What about you?"

Lara shrugged, biting into a piece of toast. "I've booked archery practice later with Clifford and Carie. I want to improve my accuracy. I'll probably be in the department when you arrive for the meeting."

Klaus nodded, admiring Lara's dedication. "You won the last tournament and you're still focused on improving? I'm sure you'll be in the Olympics one day."

She smiled, her eyes shining with enthusiasm. "Thank you, Klaus. I really hope so. And who knows, maybe we can organize a training session together sometime. You were a great opponent."

"We certainly will," he agreed, feeling excited by the idea. "It would be great to train with you. I always learn something new when we practice together."

The conversation continued in a light and relaxed manner, the two friends exchanging stories and laughs as they finished their breakfast. Klaus felt the weight of his worries ease a little, replaced by Lara's pleasant company and support.

When they had finished eating, they got up and started to take their trays back. Lara looked at Klaus, her face serious for a moment. "Remember, Klaus, you're not alone in this. All of us in the guild are on this journey together. And together, we can overcome any challenge."

Klaus smiled, feeling a new wave of determination. "Thank you, Lara. I'll remember that."

They said goodbye, each heading off to their own activities for the day. Klaus walked back to his dormitory, feeling refreshed and ready to face the challenges ahead, both in the real and virtual worlds. He knew that, with friends like Lara by his side, he had the strength to carry on.

As he climbed the stairs to his room, Klaus reflected on recent events and Charles Richards' words. The responsibility of altering the balance of power in the world of Rise Online was enormous, but he was determined to do whatever it took to protect both the game world and his friends.

Entering his room, Klaus sat down at his desk, opening his study books. He knew he needed to find a balance between his academic duties and his gaming life. With a deep breath, he began to read, concentrating on the words and absorbing the knowledge he would need for his future adventures. However, sinking his face into books wasn't exactly the perfect thing to do after an early night.

Klaus fell asleep with the book on his face, and only woke up when he heard his arm moving slightly.

He opened his eyes, but everything was still dark. There was a weight on his face. It was the book he was using for himself. Klaus took out the book to see who was disturbing his good sleep.

It was then that he saw Nathan, a blond, blue-eyed boy and one of the boys who shared a room with him.

"Huh? What's up?"

"Didn't you go to class? It's already three in the afternoon."

"What? How did I sleep for so long?" Klaus got up and picked up his cell phone. In fact, the clock read 3:17pm.

Nathan laughed at Klaus' reaction. "Oh, man! That's the best startled reaction I've ever seen you make! Don't worry, you only dozed off for a few minutes. I came in, saw your cell phone wobbling and had the idea of using facial recognition to unlock it and then change the time! MUAHAHAHHA!"

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