Record Time

The relay continued smoothly.

Chii and Hana worked together with remarkable focus, immediately crossing a fourth of the distance without the ball dropping. Meanwhile, on the other side, Maaya had just passed the baton to their next runner, Umeda.

While our class had all their excitement focused on cheering for Chii and Hana, Class 3 mirrored our intensity. Ryouko-san had to shush both sides to keep the atmosphere tense and avoid distracting the players.

A minute later, on the last stretch before Station 4, the ball wobbled precariously.

Everyone collectively held their breath because if they dropped it here, they’d have to restart from the beginning, the Class 3 would be able to catch up!

Almost immediately, Chii and Hana stopped in place, carefully balancing the ball. Sweat dotted Hana’s forehead, while Chii whispered encouragement to her partner while smiling despite the tension.