Victory

The tournament grounds were abuzz with excitement as the 3-on-3 team event approached. Teams from various schools lined up at their respective shooting stations, each preparing for their moment of glory. Haruki, Aiko, and Mei, now the official team representing their school, stood together, mentally preparing for their upcoming match.

Haruki checked his gear one last time, making sure everything was in place. "Alright team, we've trained for this. Remember, it's not just about hitting the target, it's about hitting it with precision and strategy."

Aiko nodded, her gaze serious. "Let's focus on our technique and stay calm under pressure."

Mei, though nervous, managed a smile. "Got it. Let's show them what we're made of."

★★★★

The announcer's voice cut through the noise of the crowd. "Next up, we have Shikura High School versus Hoshizora Academy! This will be a thrilling 3-on-3 archery competition. Contestants, take your positions!"

The team from Hoshizora Academy marched confidently to their shooting positions. They were known for their precise and aggressive shooting style. Haruki studied their movements, noting their strong posture and the intensity in their eyes.

"They look serious," Mei observed. "But so are we."

★★★★

Haruki was the first to take aim for Shikura High. He stepped up to the shooting line, adjusting his stance. His bow felt familiar and steady in his hands. The target, set at 70 meters, was waiting for him.

He took a deep breath, pulling the bowstring back with practiced ease. His first arrow flew smoothly through the air, its flight path almost poetic. The arrow struck the center of the target with a satisfying thud, the bullseye illuminated by the spotlight. The crowd erupted in cheers.

"Nice shot, Haruki!" Aiko cheered from the sidelines.

His opponent, a tall boy from Hoshizora Academy, stepped up. His technique was aggressive, with a quick draw and release. His arrow flew with impressive speed but landed slightly off-center.

"That was close," Mei said, her eyes tracking the arrow's trajectory.

The scorekeeper updated the board, showing Haruki with a solid lead.

★★★★

Aiko readied herself for her turn. She adjusted her grip and focused on the target. Her bowstring felt like an extension of her arm as she pulled it back, her muscles working in perfect harmony.

She released the arrow with a smooth motion. It soared through the air, hitting the bullseye with a precise impact. The crowd's applause was deafening, but Aiko remained focused, her eyes narrowing as she prepared for the next arrow.

The Hoshizora Academy shooter, a girl with sharp eyes and a steady stance, took her turn. Her arrow flew in a perfect arc but landed just outside the bullseye, scoring slightly lower than Aiko's shot.

"Good job, Aiko!" Haruki said, his voice full of encouragement.

★★★★

Mei was up next, and she took a moment to compose herself. Her hands were steady, but her heart raced with anticipation. She had been practicing for this, and now it was time to show her skills.

With a determined look, Mei drew back her bowstring. Her arrow shot out with a clean release, hitting the target with impressive accuracy. The crowd responded with cheers as the arrow struck the edge of the bullseye.

"That's the way to do it!" Aiko shouted.

The opposing team's final shooter, a boy with a confident smirk, prepared for his shot. His bow was drawn back quickly, and he released the arrow with a powerful thrust. The arrow flew fast but veered slightly, hitting just outside the bullseye.

★★★★

The tension in the air was palpable as the scores were calculated. Shikura High School was ahead, but only by a narrow margin. The final round would determine the victor.

Riku, who had been watching from the sidelines cheering. "FINISH THEM!"

★★★★

The last round was crucial. Each team would have one more chance to secure their victory. Haruki, Aiko, and Mei gathered for a quick pep talk.

"Okay, this is our final push," Haruki said, his tone serious. "We've got this. Just stay focused."

The first shooter for Hoshizora Academy was up again. He took aim with a grim determination, his arrow striking close to the bullseye but not enough to surpass the score of Shikura High School.

Mei took her turn, her face a picture of concentration. Her arrow sailed through the air, striking the target with a satisfying thud. The scoreboard updated, showing their lead widening.

The final shooter for Shikura High was Aiko. She took a deep breath, focusing on the target. Her arrow was released with precision, hitting the bullseye perfectly.

The crowd roared as the final scores were displayed. Shikura High School had won the match, securing their place in the next round of the tournament.

★★★★

As the team celebrated, Riku approached with a grin. "Well, well, look at you all, champions of the day! How was that for a show?"

Mei laughed. "You were missed out there, Riku. Next time, we'll need your expertise!"

Riku waved his hand dismissively. "Oh, please. I'm just here for the the drama. But seriously, you guys were amazing."

Haruki placed a hand on Riku's shoulder. "Thanks for the support, Riku. It means a lot."

Riku's grin widened. "And remember, the next tournament will be even tougher. So, don't slack off!"