No need for a grand introduction, but besides Air Groove, I've got another Uma Musume under my wing: Fuji Kiseki. She's stepping into the Classic class this year. Back in her Junior days, like Air Groove, she went undefeated with four straight wins, including a G1. Word on the street is she's a top contender for the Classic Triple Crown. No doubt, she's a talented Uma Musume.
And then there's… her gentlemanly charm and insane popularity. A true gentlewoman. Plus, she's ridiculously good with her juniors.
Fuji: "Oh my, spacing out here? Got something on your mind?"
Hachiman: "…Just sorting out my thoughts about you."
Hachiman: "Yeah, pretty much."
Fuji: "Learn anything interesting?"
Hachiman: "Yup. You're a natural Uma Musume charmer."
Fuji: "Now I'm curious how I look in your eyes." leans in
Hachiman: "…You gotta get this close? My eyes are cloudy, don't they gross you out?"
Fuji: "Really? They're unique, sure, but I think they're lovely. I see kind eyes that put us Uma Musume first. So, how do my eyes look to you?"
Hachiman: "I take back the Uma Musume charmer bit. You could charm anyone."
Fuji: "Dodging the question? Very you. But I don't mind that side of you either."
…She pulls off lines like that so naturally. I could never match that suave energy.
Fuji: "You're focused on training now, but the first race is the Yayoi Sho, right? Like we discussed in the meeting, we're aiming for the Triple Crown?"
Hachiman: "That's the plan for now. Your running style suits mid-distance, but the Derby's distance might be tough. We'll start with the Yayoi Sho and Satsuki Sho. If you're struggling, we might switch routes. Your call, though."
Fuji: "…Hachiman Trainer-san."
Fuji: "You'll get me to the Derby, right?"
Hachiman: "Nah, that's impossible."
Hachiman: "No one but you can grab that spot. I can help with training and support, but I can't take you to the Derby. It's all on you. If you want it, I'll back you up 100%."
Hachiman: "Even if you get there, winning's up to you too."
Fuji: "…Then, Hachiman Trainer-san."
Fuji: "I want to win the Derby!"
Hachiman: "Then we've gotta train hard. Building distance aptitude isn't easy, so brace yourself. More hill training's coming."
Fuji: "Hehe, leave it to me! I'll show you my Kiseki♪"
Hachiman: "I'm counting on it. For now, focus on the Yayoi Sho. You're unbeatable as is, but we'll make you stronger. Let's do this."
Fuji: "That's the spirit!"
Looks like I fired her up. The Derby, huh? My first shot with Fuji… What's that pressure like? No use thinking about it now. Gotta plan her training menu.
Air Groove: "Hm, you're early. Usually, you just unlock the door and make us wait. Is it gonna rain tomorrow?"
Hachiman: "What do you take me for…?"
Air Groove: "Heh, kidding. But it's rare. Something up? If you're worried, I'll listen."
Hachiman: "Nah, no worries or anything. I'm good."
Air Groove: "Alright. But if something's up, tell me or Fuji. We're here."
Hachiman: "Yeah, thanks."
CB: "Yo! I'm back again!!"
Air Groove: "…She never gives up."
CB: "Duh! I gotta keep showing up, or some other Uma Musume will snag the third spot!!"
Hachiman: "Relax, you're the only candidate for third right now."
CB: "Really? REALLY!?"
Hachiman: "Yup, so chill."
Air Groove: "Hachiman, what about Rice Shower? Isn't she your favorite?"
Hachiman: "Uh, well… Yeah, Rice is a great Uma Musume too… Oh, crap, maybe I've got another candidate." ʀᴇᴀᴅ ʟᴀᴛᴇsᴛ ᴄʜᴀᴘᴛᴇʀs ᴀᴛ 𝕟𝕠𝕧𝕖𝕝✶𝕗𝕚𝕣𝕖✶𝕟𝕖𝕥
CB: "Whaaat!? Air Groove, don't say stuff like that!!"
Fuji: "Sorry I'm late… Huh?"
CB: "You didn't have to say that now!! You could've waited till I was locked in as the third!! Not when it's decision time!!"
Air Groove: "But Hachiman was eyeing her too, and I couldn't let that slip."
Fuji: "Uh… What's going on?"
Hachiman: "Just some talk about my third trainee."
Hachiman: "Alright, you guys, get ready for training. Up, up!"
CB: "Hachiman!! It's me, right? I'm the third, yeah!? You said it!!"
Hachiman: "Yeah, yeah, I got it. Get ready, CB, or I'm leaving you behind."
Phew… Things are about to get busy again.
The Fuji Kiseki arc kicks off with a bang in this Yahari x Uma Musume side story! Fuji's charm and Derby dreams set the stage, while Hachiman's blunt support and CB's chaotic third-spot battle add humor. Air Groove's steady presence and Rice's mention keep things lively. Let's race to the Derby!
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