Rise Online: Return of the Legendary Player
Chapter 602 Max (Part 2)



Klaus noticed the tension in the air and a pang of jealousy hit him as he saw Emma accompanied by another boy. He knew they were just friends and that he had Ashley, but he still couldn't help the feeling.

"Good morning, Emma." greeted Klaus, trying to keep a calm expression despite his internal nervousness. He then pressed the first floor button.

"Good morning, Klaus. How are you?"

"Well, very well... And who is your friend?" Klaus asked, trying to disguise his discomfort.

Emma smiled and introduced the boy. "Klaus, this is Max. He's from my department and he's competing in the tournament. Max, this is Klaus, the phenomenal archer you've probably heard of."

Max extended his hand to greet Klaus. "What's up, man. Yeah, I heard about you. Looks like we have quite a competitor in the tournament."

Klaus shook Max's hand firmly. "It's nice to meet you, Max. Good luck in the competition today, actually, to both of you."

"Thanks, man." Max smiled.

As the elevator descended, Emma noticed the slight tension between the two boys and decided to lighten the mood. "So, Klaus, how was your night? Did you get a good night's rest? I bet you're exhausted."

Klaus gave a slight smile. "Yes, I managed to rest a little better. I'm still getting used to all this championship rush, but I'm feeling better today."

In order to show a friendly attitude, Max patted Klaus on the back. "That's the way it is, man. Competitions are intense, but the adrenaline is amazing, isn't it?"

At that moment, Klaus looked back and then looked at Emma, who quickly explained:

"Max has been used to competitions since he was a kid. He was on the soccer and field hockey team in High School."

"Ah! That explains the soccer team captain thing." Klaus stated with mockery.

Max looked at Klaus and smiled. "So, you realized it too! Yeah, I was the captain of the soccer team in high school!"

"That's nice." Klaus smiled wryly with his mouth closed.

As the elevator descended to the first floor, Klaus tried to remain calm and not show the annoyance he was feeling. He knew that Emma and Max were just teammates, but he couldn't help the feeling of jealousy, because what if they weren't just teammates? He took a deep breath and forced a smile as he said goodbye.

"It was nice to meet you, Max. Good luck in the competition today." Klaus held out his hand for a final shake as the elevator whistle finally resounded.

Max shook Klaus' hand again. "My pleasure, man. I look forward to facing you in the final!"

Emma also greeted Klaus before exiting the elevator. "See you later, Klaus."

"Good luck, Emma. See you later." Klaus replied politely.

As soon as the elevator reached the first floor and the doors opened, they parted ways, each going about their day's activities.

Klaus headed to the hotel restaurant to have a hearty breakfast and prepare for the big day he would have before the final stage of the competition.

Taking a seat at the restaurant table, he tried to push away the negative thoughts. He knew he couldn't let himself be overwhelmed by jealousy or other distractions.

Klaus knew this was a day off and he needed to focus on his goal and keep his mind clear, but it was difficult. He ordered a black coffee and eggs with bacon to energize his body before the big day ahead of him.

At the same time, Klaus tried to push away thoughts about Emma and Max. He knew it wasn't fair to feel jealous as he remembered how Ashley had supported him throughout the competition and encouraged him to do his best. It wasn't fair to her, nor to how he felt about her. Besides, he didn't want to let his emotions damage his relationship.

With a more focused mind, Klaus finished his breakfast and paid the bill. However, as he made his way through the hotel lobby, longing to get back to his room and farm more experience, Klaus' cell phone vibrated, indicating a new message. Surprisingly, it was a private message from Lara, Captain of the New York Archery Department, which left him a little surprised.

[Lara Captain: Good morning, Klaus (8:45)

Lara Captain: Are you too busy to come here and give me and Andrew some tips? (8:45)

Lara Captain: He told me not to ask you to do that, because you might be busy or tired, but if you're not, it would be really nice to have the tips from someone who's already in the final. (08:46).

Klaus read Lara's messages and a smile formed on his face. He felt honored that she had subjected herself to asking for tips even though he was so talented. Despite being busy, Klaus did not hesitate to reply.

[Klaus: Sure, I'm always willing to help. (08:47)

Klaus: Andrew needn't worry, I'm happy to share some tips with you. (08:47)

Lara Captain: That's great! I really appreciate it, Klaus. Can we meet in the archery training room in 5 minutes? (08:47)

Lara Captain: I believe Andrew is looking forward to it too, although he's here annoyed with me LOL (08:56)

Klaus: Sure, I'll be right there (08:58).]

Klaus quickly made his way to the archery training room, remembering how Andrew had helped him in the beginning and now it was his turn to return the favor. As soon as he reached the room, he found Lara and Andrew already waiting for him. They exchanged greetings and then Klaus began to help them, talking about archery techniques, positioning, combat strategies and everything that could help them perform better in the competition.

...

Edited by: DrHitsuji

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