Fifty-five, fifty-six, fifty-seven...

Fifty-eight, fifty-nine, sixty.

Okay, that's enough planking...

Now that we've warmed up, shall we practice shooting using the hay bales?

Okay, that sounds good.

Hehe...

This feels somewhat nostalgic.

Remember how the two of us used to line up like this when we were first years?

Yes, I do.

And you were kind enough to help me when you saw that I was having trouble drawing the bowstring.

You were very busy back then, so it must've been hard to learn how to shoot properly.

Yes, it was. I had so much going on at the time...

But I really need to thank you. I was able to stay in the archery club because of all the support you gave me.

Hehe. That's very kind of you, but I really didn't do anything all that special.

No, I disagree...

What?

Remember how you practiced with me before the newcomer tournament when we were first years?

The newcomer tournament when we were first years...?

Oh...

That's right. We did practice together here just before it.

Yes.

That time, you taught me how to calm myself...

And how focusing on just shooting your arrow allows you to clear your mind of unnecessary thoughts...

After putting what you said into practice, Asahina, I was able to hit the target for the first time...

In essence, you saved me.

I saved you...?

Yes.

Back then, I had so much going on and didn't know what to do.

I was disappointing everybody at work and couldn't help Airi when she was thinking about changing agencies...

I kept beating myself up about not being able to do anything right.

But then, you taught me that calming technique, and I was able to move forward from all that...

I learned how to focus on each arrow... I figured out how to put everything into my shot.

I see...

Still, all I did was say what I felt...

What saved you that time may have been your work ethic. I was simply there to give you a gentle push.

Yes, I'm standing here today partially because I worked very hard and didn't give up...

However, I still believe that you played an important role in helping me when I needed it most...

So, Asahina, thank you for what you did.

*Nod*

You're welcome...

Um, also, Asahina...

Just as you helped me that time, Asahina, I'd like to return the favor somehow.

Huh?

So, the thing is...

When we spoke the other day, you seemed very preoccupied with something...

That reminded me of how you were just after the newcomer tournament concluded.

You were practicing all by yourself while it was snowing... Which was somewhat concerning...

So, I came to believe that something must be bothering you.

Something that not even your calming technique could help you overcome...

...

I'm sorry for bringing this up so suddenly, but that's how I feel...

I'm a little worried...

So, if there is something bothering you, I'd like for you to talk to me about it.

You saved me once before, Asahina.

Now it's my turn to help you.

Hinomori...

(She wants to help me...?)

I appreciate your concern, Hinomori...

But I'm fine.

What...?

When we spoke the other day... I was just beginning to feel the stress of exams since it's nearly that time of year...

And when we were first years... I felt a bit frustrated over finishing in fourth place at the newcomer tournament, so I must've been somewhat on edge.

But...

Are you sure...?

Yes...

So there's nothing for you to worry about.

I see...

In that case, I apologize for jumping to conclusions. I didn't mean to be overbearing...

No, that's okay.

I really appreciate how you're trying to look out for me.

So, Hinomori, thank you.

No, I just...

I know...

Since we have the hay bales out, why don't we have ourselves a little contest?

Huh?

We've never had many opportunities to shoot together like this. So, what do you think?

Yes, you're right...

Then, let's.

Good.

Oh, before we do, I'd like to use the restroom...

Okay...

(Was I just imagining things...?)

(Still...)

(That look on her face...)