Ritsuka Fujimaru stood in the expansive training area of Chaldea, the sun casting long shadows across the ground. Before him were two formidable figures: Atalanta and Tomoe Gozen, both renowned archers in their own right. Today, they had agreed to teach their Master the delicate art of archery, a skill he had long admired but never truly attempted.
"Alright, Master," Atalanta said, her tone encouraging yet firm as she adjusted her quiver. "The key to archery is focus and precision. You need to become one with your bow."
Tomoe nodded in agreement, a serious expression on her face. "That's right. Feel the tension in the bowstring and visualize your shot before releasing it. Remember, practice is what will make you proficient. Let's start with some basic techniques."
Ritsuka took a deep breath, trying to channel their wisdom. He held the bow in his hands, feeling its weight and balance. It felt alien yet exciting. "Got it," he replied, determined to impress his skilled Servants.
"Let's start with the basics," Tomoe instructed, demonstrating the correct stance. "Feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and your body aligned with the target."
Ritsuka mimicked her stance, trying to remember every detail. "Like this?"
"Almost," Atalanta said, stepping closer to adjust his grip. "Hold the bow more firmly, and don't forget to anchor the string to your face when drawing. It helps with aiming."
Ritsuka nodded, feeling a bit self-conscious. "Okay, I'll try again."
He took aim at a moving practice dummy about fifty meters away. The dummy, an unassuming target dressed in ragged clothing, swayed gently as if mocking his efforts. Ritsuka drew the bowstring back, his fingers trembling slightly as he aimed.
"Focus, Master," Tomoe encouraged, her eyes narrowed as she observed him. "Breathe in... and release your arrow."
With a shaky exhale, Ritsuka released the string, and the arrow flew—straight into the ground, a few feet short of the target.
He sighed, feeling the disappointment wash over him. "Ugh, I missed again."
"Don't be discouraged," Atalanta chimed in, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "It takes time to master this skill. Let's try again. You can do it."
Ritsuka picked up another arrow, determined to do better this time. He once again drew back the string, focusing on his breathing, but just as he was about to let go, a sudden gust of wind blew through the training area, causing him to flinch. The arrow veered off course and hit the side of the dummy instead, bouncing harmlessly away.
"Come on, Master!" Atalanta said, stifling a laugh. "You've got to be more consistent. Think of the wind as just another factor to account for."
Ritsuka couldn't help but smile at her enthusiasm, but the pressure was building. "Alright, I'll give it one more shot."
"Visualize your aim," Tomoe instructed, her voice steady and calm. "Picture the arrow finding its mark."
Ritsuka took a deep breath, shutting out the distractions. He steadied himself, envisioning the arrow soaring true to its target. With renewed determination, he drew back the bowstring again, this time anchoring it firmly against his face.
"Now!" Atalanta called. "Release!"
Ritsuka let go, and the arrow flew through the air, slicing smoothly past the wind. This time, it struck the target with a satisfying thud, hitting the dummy squarely in the chest.
"YES!" he shouted, pumping his fist in triumph. "I did it!"
Atalanta clapped her hands in delight. "That's the spirit! You see? You just needed to focus!"
Tomoe smiled, a hint of pride in her eyes. "Well done, Master. It seems you're starting to grasp the fundamentals."
Ritsuka beamed at both of them, feeling a rush of accomplishment. "I can't believe I actually hit it! Thank you for your help!"
"Don't get too cocky," Tomoe warned playfully, crossing her arms. "That was only one shot. You'll need much more practice if you want to reach our level."
"Yeah, I know," Ritsuka said, his excitement dimming slightly. "But at least I'm getting better, right?"
"Of course," Atalanta said, her voice brightening again. "Let's do some more rounds. You'll improve even more with each shot."
Ritsuka nodded, picking up another arrow. He felt a renewed sense of determination, ready to embrace the challenges that lay ahead. As they continued practicing, the laughter and banter of his two archers filled the training area, making the day off feel special—an unforgettable experience shared with those he admired most.
Time flew as Ritsuka shot arrow after arrow, each one a little more accurate than the last. The sun dipped lower in the sky, painting the training grounds in hues of orange and pink, but the three of them were completely engrossed in their activity.
"Let's finish strong with one last round," Atalanta suggested. "Aim for the bullseye this time."
Ritsuka smiled, feeling a mix of nerves and excitement. "Alright, I'll do my best!"
