Klaus was exhausted and heavy-hearted after the thrilling battle against Mikael and his North Dakota team. As much as he knew the New York team was proud of him, Klaus couldn't help but feel hurt by their defeat. He wondered if he could have done more, if his choices were the right ones and if he really helped the team or just hindered it, since unlike Riley, who is a talented fencer, he is just a beginner who had no coordination with the other individuals.
He walked slowly down the hallway from the locker room exit, still hearing the sound of the ecstatic crowd in his mind.
Meanwhile, a feeling of disappointment began to rise in his chest. He fought with all his might, but in the end, it was not enough to win.
However, before he could sink further into his thoughts, a familiar voice called his name:
"Klaus!"
He raised his head and saw Ashley running towards him, a bright smile on her face.
"Ashley?"
