Co-ed Swedish Relay (2)
“Let’s give it our all, Oda-kun.”
“Yeah. Let’s both do our best, Nitta-san.”
“…Hey, Oda-kun.”
“Hm? What is it?”
“Earlier, you told everyone not to feel pressured—that the process matters more than the outcome. But… you’re the kind of person who actually cares more about the results than anything else, aren’t you?”
“Well, yeah. I guess if I had to choose, that’s the kind of person I am. Personally, if I’m going to do something, I want to walk away with the best possible result.”
I told everyone to take it easy, but the truth is—I don’t even consider any outcome other than first place.
With this team, if we just run our race properly, I honestly believe we’ll win.
“Heh… I figured as much. I thought the same thing back when you filled in for me on guitar at the school festival. You never push anyone, but when you decide to do something yourself, you’re the kind who’ll stop at nothing to make it perfect.”
“Well, just so you know—I meant what I said earlier. All the practice we’ve put in really does matter. And even if we lose, I’m not about to start pointing fingers or blaming anyone.”
“I know. I get that. I was only talking about you, not anyone else.”
“Good. Glad we’re clear. Still, me being me, I am aiming to win. I may not show it, but I’m pretty competitive.”
After all, I’m the strongest Hero—five years spent fighting the Demon King’s army in another world, and not once did I taste defeat.
I’m used to winning. Ever since becoming a Hero, I’ve never once lost.
Well… except for that time at the school festival when I raced Hasumin in Mini 4WD—three matches, three losses.
But that was just a game, so it doesn’t count.
Seriously—it doesn’t count!
I am Oda Shuhei, the undefeated, ever-victorious Hero. For someone like me, the only thing worth pursuing is the glory of victory!
“You’re just like her.”
“Like who?”
“Hasumin. She’s been practicing a lot—watching videos on running form and baton passing. She’s just like you—super competitive.”
“Really? I had no idea. She’s too reserved for her own good. She could’ve just told me.”
“Maybe she was practicing in secret… hoping to impress a certain someone?”
“Are Hasumin’s parents coming to watch? Mine didn’t make it this time.”
“Hmm… I don’t think it’s her parents.”
“Well, whoever she’s trying to show off for… I think it’s amazing how hard she tries. No matter what it is, she gives it her all.”
“…Yeah. Whether it’s the school festival or the sports festival, she’s been extra dedicated lately. Maybe it’s because you’re around.”
“Could be. Hasumin and I are class president and vice president. I’m sure she’s trying to make sure everyone in class has fun. Honestly, I haven’t done nearly as much—she’s the one I should be learning from.”
Practicing the relay in secret, giving her all to every school event… Hasumin’s dedication puts me to shame.
“Hmm, although that’s not exactly what I meant… If she’s that way, then I guess you are too.”
“What are you talking about?”
“Oh, nothing. Just me being a meddlesome busybody. Don’t worry about it. Anyway, it’s almost time—I’m heading to the start line.”
Nitta-san gave me a slightly wry smile as she said that, then turned and walked toward her position.
“I’m counting on you, first runner. Just don’t overdo it—stay loose, keep those shoulders relaxed.”
I called out to her back with a light voice, seeing her off.
(Still, she said that’s not what she meant… then what did she mean?)
It’s bugging me a little, but now’s not the time to dwell on it. I’ve got to focus on the co-ed Swedish relay.
I’m the anchor. If I start overthinking things and drop the baton or mess up somehow… I’d never forgive myself.
“Whatever happens, I’m the undefeated Hero. And I hate losing. The legend of my five-year win streak… continues even in this world!”
Quietly stoking the fire in my chest, I turned my gaze toward Nitta-san, standing at the start line.