The Selection Showdown

The gymnasium buzzed with excitement as the team gathered for the crucial selection competition. The air was thick with tension and anticipation as the coach stood before them, ready to make the big announcement.

"Alright, everyone," the coach began, "we've seen some impressive performances in training, and now it's time to determine who will be joining Haruki and Aiko in the 3-on-3 archery tournament. The final spot will be decided through this mini-competition."

The participants—Riku, Mei, Kenji, and a few others—nodded and prepared themselves. The practice area was set up with three targets placed at the standard tournament distance. Each archer had a chance to shoot, and their scores would determine the final selection.

Haruki and Aiko, already assured spots on the team, watched with interest. They exchanged encouraging glances, knowing that the competition would be fierce.

The coach called up the first competitor, a tall, athletic boy named Jiro. He took a deep breath and stepped up to the line. His form was steady as he nocked an arrow and drew his bow. With a swift release, the arrow flew straight and true, hitting the outer ring of the target. The crowd murmured, and Jiro shrugged, not quite satisfied with his performance.

Next up was Mei. She approached the line with her usual grace and precision. Mei nocked her arrow, her movements fluid and controlled. She aimed carefully and released, sending the arrow slicing through the air. It struck the inner circle of the target with a satisfying thud. The crowd applauded her accuracy, and Mei gave a modest smile.

"Nice shot, Mei!" Haruki called out, giving her a thumbs-up.

Mei nodded, acknowledging the praise. "Thanks! Just trying to keep up with you guys."

As the competition continued, it was Riku's turn. He stepped up with a determined expression, his previous disappointment forgotten in the face of the challenge. He took a deep breath, visualized the target, and drew his bow. The first arrow flew with impressive speed, hitting the inner ring. Riku's face brightened with satisfaction, and he prepared for his next shot.

Kenji, known for his quiet demeanor, was up next. He approached the line with a calm and focused attitude. His form was impeccable as he drew and released his arrow. It struck the bullseye with a soft thud, earning him a round of impressed applause from the audience. Kenji's eyes flickered with a hint of a smile as he prepared for his second shot.

The competition continued, with each archer demonstrating their skills. Haruki and Aiko observed closely, offering encouragement and occasional advice. The tension in the gymnasium grew as the final scores were tallied.

As Riku took his final shots, he knew he had to give it his all. His third arrow soared through the air, hitting the bullseye with precision. The crowd cheered, and Riku felt a surge of confidence. His performance was solid, but he knew it was going to be a close call.

When the scores were announced, it was clear that Kenji had performed exceptionally well. His consistent accuracy and impressive shots secured him the third spot on the team. Riku, despite his best efforts, fell short but maintained his composure with a brave smile.

The coach approached Riku, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "You gave it your best shot, Riku. Kenji's performance was outstanding today, but don't let this get you down. Keep pushing forward."

Riku chuckled and shrugged. "Hey, no worries. I'll get better, you'll see! I'm still the king of this castle and palace, remember? I'll show everyone what I'm made of!"

Haruki, with a playful smirk, teased Riku. "Alright, Your Highness, don't go too hard on us mere mortals. We need you to be our number one fan now."

Aiko joined in, grinning. "Yeah, and don't forget to cheer us on from the sidelines. We'll need your royal support!"

Riku laughed, his spirits lifted by the camaraderie of his friends. "Absolutely! I'll be the loudest cheerleader you've ever seen. Just wait and see!"

As the friends left the gymnasium, their conversation was filled with lighthearted banter. Riku's jokes and playful attitude kept everyone's spirits high, despite the disappointment of not making the team. The group's bond was evident as they joked and laughed together, their friendship unshaken by the competition.

Later that evening, Riku practiced in his large backyard, the archery targets set up for his personal training. He was determined to improve and support his friends in every way he could. His dedication was unwavering, and he knew that the journey was far from over. With the support of his friends and his own resolve, Riku was ready to face any challenge that lay ahead.