Rise Online: Return of the Legendary Player

Chapter 934: Gieneno & Zukas

The next day, the rising sun tinted the horizon with shades of gold and pink, spreading a soft light that heralded a new beginning. The arena, still imposing in its desolation, silently awaited the footsteps of those who would once again make it the stage for crucial decisions.

Kaizen, Cephal, and Alaric met in the center of the arena, where the shadows of the abandoned stands drew intricate patterns on the floor.

Kaizen looked at the others, noting the determination in Alaric's eyes and Cephal's caution. The distant sound of morning birds and the whisper of the wind in the ruins created an atmosphere of anticipation.

"Are we ready to begin?" asked Kaizen, his voice echoing in the empty arena.

Alaric nodded, an ancient scroll in his hands. "I have received the coordinates from Odin. Most of the Evolved are in Vanaheim, but there is a duo in Midgard that we can try to recruit first. They're known for their independence and might be easier to convince to join us."

Cephal frowned, his eyes fixed on the parchment. "And where exactly are they in Midgard?"

Alaric unfolded the parchment, revealing a detailed map. "They are in a vast rainforest east of here. The coordinates lead us to a region known for its density and biodiversity. It will be a challenge to find them, but I believe we can do it."

Kaizen, always practical, gestured with his hand. "Then there's no time to lose. Let's go to Midgard and find this couple. We need all the help we can get."

- In the Midgard Rainforest.

The trip to Midgard was quick, using portals that Odin had provided to speed their journey. The group soon found themselves on the edge of a dense rainforest, where the air was thick with humidity and the constant sound of wildlife echoed around them. The tall, intertwined trees created a green canopy that blocked out much of the sunlight, leaving the forest floor in a perpetual gloom.

Alaric led the way, his trained eyes scanning the vegetation for signs of the Evolved.

"They must be here somewhere," he said, his voice low but clear. "We must be vigilant and move with caution. This forest can be treacherous."

Cephal, always cautious, kept his sword drawn, ready for any eventuality. "I don't like this," he muttered. "It's the perfect place for an ambush."

Kaizen looked around with his usual calm, taking in the landscape. "We have to trust Alaric's instincts. He was sent by Odin to help us. And so far, he has proven himself worthy of our trust."

They moved through the forest, each step calculated to avoid unnecessary noise. The sound of insects buzzing, birds singing, and animals stealthily moving through the foliage created a natural concert that enveloped the three of them.

In the depths of the Midgard Rainforest, sunlight filtered sporadically through the dense foliage, creating a play of shadows and lights that seemed to dance to the sounds of the surrounding wildlife. Kaizen, Alaric, and Cephal's steps were meticulously calculated, moving with the caution of seasoned hunters in unfamiliar terrain.

The humidity saturated the air, making their clothes cling to their bodies and each breath seem heavier.

Alaric stopped abruptly and raised his hand in a silent gesture that instantly froze the other two. His alert eyes scanned the area ahead, where a natural opening in the forest suggested a possible meeting point.

"They're close," Alaric whispered, his eyes fixed on the clearing. "I sense their presence. We have to approach them carefully. They might be suspicious."

Cephal, his sword already drawn, stepped forward, his eyes narrowing as he scanned the clearing. "I prefer a direct approach. Less room for surprises."

Kaizen, always the voice of reason, placed a hand on Cephal's shoulder. "Let's stick to the plan. Alaric knows what he's doing."

The three of them walked toward the clearing, their presence almost invisible in the dark of the forest. As they approached, the shapes of two individuals began to emerge from the dense vegetation. The first, a skeletal figure with long white hair falling like a waterfall, seemed almost ethereal, his thinness giving him a cadaverous appearance.

Next to him, a tall, imposing black man, wearing sunglasses that contrasted with the natural surroundings, stood out as a solid, intimidating presence.

Alaric stepped forward, his movements carefully calculated so as not to alarm them. "Gieneno, Zukas," he called, his calm, clear voice cutting through the heavy forest air. "We come in peace. We have been sent by Odin."

Gieneno, the slender figure, turned slowly, his deep, dark eyes fixed on Alaric with an almost hypnotic intensity. "And why should we trust you?" his voice was as fragile as his appearance, but carried an undeniable strength.

Kaizen stepped forward, trying to show confidence and openness. "We need allies. The coming battle will require all the help we can get. Alaric has told us that you are Evolved and that you can be persuaded to join us."

Zukas, the imposing man, took off his sunglasses, revealing sharp eyes that analyzed Kaizen from top to bottom. "It's not that we don't belong to a guild," he said, his deep voice echoing through the clearing. "We are the Transformed Guild. We're enough for each other."

Cephal raised an eyebrow, still holding his sword. "Two members don't make a guild," he muttered, clearly suspicious.

Gieneno let out a small laugh that sounded more like a sigh. "Do not underestimate what two can do," he said. "Zukas and I have complementary skills that make any greater number unnecessary."

Kaizen nodded, recognizing the determination in Gieneno's eyes. "We know the importance of trust and teamwork. If you are good enough for each other, that already proves the strength of your partnership. But the threat we face is greater than anything we've ever seen. We must join forces.

Zukas crossed his arms, his tense muscles visible even under his clothes. "And what guarantees that joining you is worth it? What's in it for us?"

"Odin believes that together we can stop the coming destruction." Alaric said. "He has faith in our ability to recruit the best for the cause. And you are the best."

Gieneno exchanged a glance with Zukas, their eyes communicating silently. "You speak well, but words are not enough. We need to see what you can do."