Uma Musume: Pretty Derby story · Main story
Chapter 1: Set Off for the Brightest Star
13 scenes, 708 lines
1. A New Era for Team Sirius
45 lines
Please, Assistant Trainer! Can't you go any faster?!
A raucous crowd tightly packs the Nakayama Racecourse stands.
Mejiro McQueen and I squeeze our way through scores of cheering fans as we head to the front.
I would never be able to forgive myself if I were to miss Oguri's big finish!
In that case, shouldn't we have just kept watching from the staff box?
As I said, I need to see her dazzling figure in this important race up close!
The other runners close in, but Oguri maintains the lead! Oguri leads!
Oh no, they're about to cross the finish! Come, take my hand!
Mejiro McQueen clasps my hand with an emphatic grip and pulls me through the crowd.
A final tug from McQueen and in that instant, the spectacle opens before us.
Oguri keeps her lead for a brilliant finish! Oguri places first! Oguri wins!
Superstar Umamusume Oguri Cap has done it! A miracle win in the last race of the Twinkle Series!
Woooow!
I'll never forget the marvel, the miracle, that unfolded in front of my eyes today.
Amazing... Just stunning! She really won!
So this is what it means to be the team's ace...
And to think she's been slumping lately. People even started saying she was done for when she placed 11th in her last race...
When we heard folks spoutin' that nonsense, we both knew we had to prove 'em wrong!
Ah, there you are. Congratulations, Trainer.
Our team's chief trainer approaches us. This man has taught me everything I know about being a trainer.
A veteran of thirty years, he's decided to make this his last race. However...
You can't possibly retire now!
That's right. Especially after you and Oguri put on such a spectacular race...
Just listen to those cheers!
Oguri! Oguri!
Today's Oguri Chant is shaking the stands to their very core! What an echo!
A crowd surpassing 100,000 chant the superstar's name.
They sing of the perfect job my mentor did preparing her for this race.
It's all the proof I need to know that he still has so much yet to give...
Nah, that's it for me, I'm afraid. After the long road here, this tank's on empty.
So the plan's not changing. Team Sirius is in your hands now!
Smack!
And so I'm pushed on, with a vigorous clap on the shoulder.
Everything I know, I learned during my two years as an assistant trainer for Team Sirius.
I'm about to lose my guiding light, one that was always there in times of weakness.
You do McQueen right, you hear? She's hitting her prime with that Kikuka Sho win!
Give it your all, and I know you two will end up defining G1 races.
You got it!
Indeed. You've been a tad unreliable as an assistant trainer, though, so I'll have to be the one supporting you.
Perhaps you'll straighten up once I win the spring Tenno Sho.
Do look forward to it, will you?
Haha! She's already got you right around her finger! But you know, I really do expect great things.
I can't wait to see where you take my dear Team Sirius!
Of course!
And so, a deep crimson falls upon the turf of Nakayama Racecourse.
2. Where'd Everyone Go?!
49 linesThe day after the Arima Kinen, Team Sirius embarks on a new chapter...
What do you MEAN the team will be disbanded?!
...beginning with a shock.
Well you see, all of the other members have transferred out and only you remain.
I'm afraid that one member is well below the team minimum.
If you aren't able to gather more members, I'm afraid we have little choice.
How could this happen overnight?! How could everyone be so cold?
Let's calm down to start.
How is it that you ARE so calm?!
The team that you inherited only yesterday is disintegrating!
Tazuna, is the disbandment immediate?
No, I don't think so. This is actually the first time this has ever happened...
But this extension is temporary at best. Without talking to the higher-ups, I can't say how long you'll have.
So time is of the essence.
Yes. I'm sorry that it's come to this when you've just taken over...
Hmph! Not a problem! We'll gather new team members posthaste!
I am a Mejiro! I'll prove just how much power there is to the Mejiro name!
Our team is looking for new recruits! Come sweat out your youth with us!
Rookie or veteran, we welcome all runners! We'll make you feel right at home!
Come one, come all! Come and get your freshly picked carrots here. They're cheap!
Act now, and we'll throw in a special deal: free membership to Team Sirius! Hey, you there! What say you?!
Ugh, why isn't there even a single taker?! Don't they know who's soliciting them?!
Well, consider the optics. This is a team run by a newbie trainer that just lost all its members.
How do you even have time for that kind of logical thinking?! You should be more worried!
I'm just as worried as you are.
The old man trusted me to take care of his team. I can't let him down.
But as it stands, I don't think these methods will get us any shiny-eyed new recruits.
We need a new strategy. We need to focus on making this a team that anyone would want to join.
At any rate, why don't we give our minds a break for now and get some training in?
I... suppose you're right.
We can't let this occupy all of our time when we have races to win. ...I'll go get ready.
Our first goal is to win the spring Tenno Sho at the end of April.
The 3,200 meter race will be a serious test of endurance. I decide to work on improving her form to draw out her best performance.
Pant, pant, pant...
Coming out of that corner, try to shift more energy into your left leg. Imagine kicking away the ground with your left foot.
Okay, understood.
Focus on that for another three laps. We'll call it a day after that.
Only three more laps?
You're still not used to this form, so we need to be careful not to strain your legs.
Yes, I see how that could be a concern.
Let me know if you have any objections, okay? I don't want to force you to do things you disagree with.
Oh no, your reasoning is sound. I have no qualms with your judgment.
Speaking as if to reassure me, Mejiro McQueen takes to the track once more.
Despite it all, I still sense a tinge of dissatisfaction.
She doesn't seem that convinced...
Is my instruction what's lacking, or is it just a matter of building trust?
And we still have recruiting to worry about. This has turned into some ordeal...
It won't stop me, though!
I give myself a good slap on the cheeks and shift my gaze back to McQueen.
3. McQueen and the Tenno Sho
54 linesMcQueen and I continue to split our time between recruitment and training.
However, our search for new team members bears no fruit, and McQueen remains the sole member of Sirius.
While that's a problem in and of itself, it's the least of my worries.
Pant, pant, pant...
McQueen has been going out late at night to train alone on an empty track.
I just need to pick up the pace a little more!
As I expected, she clearly isn't satisfied with the regimens I've prepared.
The spring Tenno Sho is fast approaching, however. This extra strain poses a risk.
Should I tell her she needs to stop? Or should I accept the risk and make my sessions more rigorous?
I've no choice. No choice but to win the spring Tenno Sho!
What do I do? The old man would have known exactly what to say. If only he could help me.
The next day, I head to the office to prepare for training. There, I find McQueen waiting with unexpected company.
Hello! Hope you don't mind me!
Could you be... a new recruit?!
Unfortunately, no. This is Mejiro Ryan, one of my dear family members.
It would appear that she wishes to speak to you about something, so I have brought her along.
Nice to meet you! It's kind of important, so I practically begged her!
Now if you'll excuse me, I have some potential teammates to recruit.
Huh? You're not joining in on the conversation?
It appears to be something of secrecy, so Ryan insisted that it just be the two of you.
I know how much of a distraction I can be, so now let me make myself sparse.
Wait, are you mad?
Not at all! Any cheeky secrets you two want to keep are of no concern to me.
So please, by all means, take your time!
Hehe. Aww, looks like she got all jealous. It's not like I was going to steal her trainer away.
So what's this important conversation?
Ah, well it's about McQueen.
You've probably already noticed, but she's pushing herself way too hard.
...Is this about her nighttime training sessions?
I knew you would have picked up on them. Yup, McQueen was right about you!
"A bit unreliable, but always looking out for me."
That's how she always describes you.
She even said that's why she'll stick with you until the end, no matter what happens.
Really? And here I thought that she didn't trust me at all.
I thought she was training alone because she was unsatisfied with my training.
Nah, she really does trust you a lot.
But if I had to guess, her personal goals for the race are getting to her.
See, when a race plays to our strengths, a Mejiro's expected to win it.
I know the family has high expectations for me when it comes to Classic races. McQueen is a stayer, so expectations are high for her to win the Tenno Sho.
Especially given how much the Tenno Sho means to the family. She wants to make everybody proud.
Expectations for her to race in the Tenno Sho have existed since she was young. Under that pressure, McQueen probably feels like she has to win.
Ah, so that's why she's been training by herself every night.
I think she's worried, y'know? She's juggling the race and recruiting.
She feels like it's on her to get it all perfect. Trust me, she's always been like this...
She's putting up a tough front. Maybe the extra training is her way of trying to cope.
So please, stop her before she hurts herself.
I'm sure she would listen to anything you have to say if you explain it to her.
Okay, leave it to me.
Yeesh, just what have I been doing all this time?
All I did was move up the ranks a bit. I can't believe I let that cloud my vision.
Thank you, Ryan. You've helped me refocus on what's really important.
Hehe, don't worry about it!
McQueen's like a little sister to me, but she's also an important rival.
I'll leave the rest to you!
4. First Steps to Glory
45 linesI decide to head to the academy track that evening to speak to McQueen. Along the way...
Oh, there you are! I've been meaning to speak with you!
I have news about the grace period before Team Sirius's dissolution!
Really?! How long is it?
Hehe, you'll be happy to hear this. You have until the end of this term, so the end of June.
Above all else, the academy recognizes that the students have races to focus on.
They decided to allow you both ample time to train.
I'm relieved. That means we can forget about our recruitment issues for now!
Thank you so much!
Not at all, I'm only the messenger! But I'm glad too. Good luck at the Tenno Sho!
The track is empty at this time of night. Most Umamusume are already in bed now...
Pant, pant, pant, pant...
But that's not stopping McQueen. How many nights has it been now?
However, it's plain to see that the overwork has taken a toll on her form. Both her upper and lower balance are off.
I would hate to see all of this ineffective training lead to an injury just before the spring Tenno Sho.
Pant, pant... Mmph, ah... Ahh!
At that very moment, McQueen wavers and falls to the ground amidst a cloud of dirt.
McQueen!
How are you feeling, McQueen?
Where am I... Oh. Trainer? Why are you...
We're in the infirmary. You should lie back down. Seems you have a fever.
A fever? Oh... I must have been more fatigued than I thought.
When I was younger, I often used to break out into fevers after running around in my childhood.
You pushed yourself too hard.
So it would seem.
W-wait, did you know this whole time?! A-about my going out at night?
Yes, and I had planned to confront you about it tonight.
I see... You always are sharp when it comes to these sorts of things.
Go ahead and say it, then. No more private training, right?
I can't have you overdoing it now.
Considering what I've brought upon myself, I have no room to argue. You have my word.
Then you're officially banned from training at night... but in exchange, let me be here for you. Open up to me.
Let me help you realize your dream of winning the Tenno Sho.
How did you... Ah! Did you hear that from Ryan?!
So that's what Ryan's little secret was all about! Meddling as ever, that girl.
But are you sure? If you're serious about helping me, you need to be prepared to handle the responsibility of training a Mejiro.
Are you ready for that? To... well... to become one of heart and mind?
You know it!
Hehe, no hesitation at all. That part of you hasn't changed at all from your assistant trainer days.
Always putting us first...
Very well. Then I shall not hold anything back any longer.
I'll be as selfish as it takes to make my dreams of victory at the Tenno Sho come true.
I am going to win!
Yeah, let's do this together!
5. Spring's Stage of Dreams
53 linesAs the Spring Tenno Sho draws ever closer, Mejiro McQueen's training regimen intensifies.
Pant, pant, pant... I believe I'm getting better at controlling my breathing.
Well, that brings us to the end of today's regimen. Do you have anything else for me?
Just letting you know, I still have plenty of energy left.
It does look like a little more wouldn't hurt today. I'll let her do as she wishes.
All right, let's have another go at it.
Strangely enough, this feels as if McQueen and I are truly training together for the first time since I took over the team.
I suppose it helps to share a singular goal to work toward.
Hey there, Trainer! McQueen's lookin' better than ever!
Hi, Ryan.
Mejiro Ryan smiles brightly, like a weight's been lifted off her shoulders.
McQueen's improved mood is without a doubt thanks to Ryan's advice.
Now that my rival's back in the game, it looks like I've gotta crank my own spring Tenno Sho prep work up to 200%!
Thanks, Ryan.
Heheh, don't mention it! Man, I sure am glad I was able to talk to you about it.
Really lookin' forward to race day. But just know that I'll be the one takin' home that win!
The spring Tenno Sho is shaping up to be a race we won't soon forget. I need to make sure that McQueen's in top condition.
The next few days fly by in a flash. The day of the spring Tenno Sho is upon us.
...
What are you thinking of eating after your win?
Hm? Ah, yes. Well... Since we're in Kyoto, maybe some Kyoto cuisine.
Sounds... good.
Seems that way...
Come now, get it together. That's something that you should have a handle on as a trainer.
I'm starting to become worried that those frazzled nerves will rub off onto me.
It's times like these that I wish I had my mentor's sociable personality.
I may not be very good at helping my trainee relax, but...
I'll cheer you on twice as loud to make up for it.
Hehe... Yes, please do.
My dream lies in wait right before my very eyes. All that's left is to go out there and grab it.
Good luck out there, McQueen!
Thank you! I'll be coming back with trophy in hand!
McQueen, that race was stunning! Congratulations!
McQueen?
I did it!
Whoa!
Mejiro's halls are adorned with countless victories, and I've finally earned a plaque of my own!
I was not expecting such a resounding display of joy from the ever-demure McQueen.
It's clear just how much the race meant to her, and why she felt so much pressure to win it.
I apologize, I lost my composure. I do believe I've earned a bit of elation, however.
In addition, I want to thank you for helping me reach this result.
To think that you would dedicate all your efforts just for me... I am truly grateful.
I'm the one who should be doing all the thanking. You placed all your faith in a newbie trainer like me, and delivered an amazing win!
...If I were to say that to her now, though, she would probably scold me for a lack of self-confidence.
An amazing win for Team Sirius!
Hehe, yes. Let's continue to seize them wherever the road may take us!
Now, I'll go make the winning concert one to remember. It's the least I can do to thank everyone who cheered me on!
6. Stormy Seas or Smooth Sailing?
58 linesA few days have passed since Mejiro McQueen's remarkable victory at the spring Tenno Sho.
Our little team of one has grown at last.
From the very first moment I saw your elegance in motion, I knew that I just HAD to join!
Sniff... Your victory... So stunning... I was, sniff... so mooooved!
I-I'm flattered.
I want to give it my all and chase my dreams just like you did!
B-by all means... Please do just that!
Seems like they were all drawn in by your performance, McQueen.
Six furlongs in a neat eighty seconds. No complaints here!
Wooow! So this is what it means to be a Tenno Sho champion!
Oh, goodness! W-won't you please give me some space?
Though, I must admit, I'm happy to train alongside a lively Team Sirius again.
We owe it all to your victory at the spring Tenno Sho!
To think that my own running would have such an influence on the team...
Still, we aren't in the clear yet. Let's keep pushing forward, as a team!
McQueen, can you teach me about good running form?
Of course, I wouldn't mind at all.
McQueen! How can I leave the gate as deftly as you do?
Let me show you that right now.
McQueen, my tummy hungy. Won't you treat me to some carrot cake?
Duh, it's me. Yo, McQueen!
G-Gold Ship...
An acquaintance of yours?
"Acquaintance" would be... saying a bit much. She's more like a pest who won't leave me be.
Ayy, I watched the Tenno Sho! You were as cool as ever!
Especially that part when ya used your own body as a shield to protect your allies from enemy fire!
Nothing of the sort ever happened! What kind of firing is happening during a footrace?!
You don't gotta explain anything. We know what we saw! The running part practically had me in tears!
And that's why I came out here. Figured you might be doing some more stunt practice!
I don't care if you simply watch, just... Please don't get in the way.
Okay, okay! I'll just zip it and watch, don't worry!
Now, my good fellows, shift your attention toward Irongut McQueen, as she enlightens us on how to down a furlong's length of wasabi rolls!
The Tenno Sho really did a number on your leggies, huh?
For goodness' sake, you have done a number on my patience. That's all.
Gold Ship has a point. You did just finish a big race, after all.
And I must start preparing for the next. There's no time to waste.
My ambitions do not simply end with the Tenno Sho.
Oh? One lifelong dream right on to the next, eh?
Naturally! As a member of the prestigious Mejiro family, I cannot fathom settling.
Besides, I also have a whole team of racers to support.
...Tryhard.
Of course I'm trying my hardest! This is certainly no time to be fooling around!
Heh, good to know. And glad you'll be keepin' those legs on the turf.
All right, I've decided! You've got another new team member starting now!
Huh?!
McQueen's efforts have caught the eyes of many far and wide. And thanks to that...
The team won't be disbanded!
Woo! Congrats! Not sure what you're talkin' about, but awesome!
The team may not be disbanded, but I'm still worried nonetheless...
While she has a point in that the team was assembled haphazardly, I genuinely believe that it will be home to true stars.
Because Sirius has Mejiro McQueen as its guiding light.
Ahoy mateys! Weigh anchor and set sail, Team McQueen!
7. A Not-So-Deserted Island
57 linesYou should be able to see it now. That island is the Mejiro family's vacation estate.
The whole island?! All right, that means we get to dig for treasure anywhere we want!
Don't you even think about using that shovel!
Team Sirius is taking advantage of the summer break to conduct a training camp.
Mejiro McQueen was able to negotiate the use of her family's private island for us. However...
Woohoo! This island really is deserted! Now we can play all day!
Come on now, we're not here to play around.
I can't say that the environment doesn't lend itself to the idea, though.
Why don't we take it easy on our first day here?
Sigh... I didn't think I would have you saying it too.
Hey, is it really okay for us to tag along? It's not like we're on your team...
I wouldn't sweat it. They did extend the invite, after all.
The more the merrier. Welcome aboard!
Thanks! I'm glad to be aboard!
And thus, Team Sirius's summer training camp begins with two extra Mejiros.
Okay everyone, one more lap!
Better speed it up, McQueen. I'm gonna overtake you!
Hey! I'm supposed to be the pace setter!
Come on, Dober. You can do better than that!
I-I can't seem to concentrate right now. Or maybe I'm just worried about the way everyone sees me...
You don't have anything to worry about! You're cute, you know!
I-I don't need your flattery! I know more than anyone how unlikable I am!
Gold Ship?! What on earth are you doing?
What else would I be doing at a beach?
We came all the way out here, so I'm goin' all out on the workout!
All I see you "going all out on" is playing around!
All right, I'm gonna pick up the pace!
Good work, everyone.
Haha, I may have gone too hard back there. And it's only the first day!
Still, nice going, McQueen. I'm impressed you were able to keep pace with Ryan when she sped up.
Well, I couldn't very well let her beat me. Not after what happened at the Takarazuka Kinen.
Just a little before the camp started, Mejiro McQueen ran in the Takarazuka Kinen, the final major race of the year's first half.
She was the favorite to win, but despite her best efforts, she came second to a soaring Mejiro Ryan.
But really, McQueen's running never ceases to amaze me! Both in training and in races!
Yeeep. And that's why I joined this team!
Urgh... How much longer is this adulation going to continue?
Deep admiration is usually earned. Shouldn't you be proud of that?
Yep, don't be afraid to strut your stuff. When I hear you gettin' all those compliments, it puts a smile on my face too!
All right, can't let up if I wanna keep beatin' Mejiro McPopular! I'm going again!
Don't think you've gotten a head start!
Time flies when you're running fast. And before we know it, the sun begins to set.
Is something wrong? Everyone else has gone inside.
Oh? Right. I was just thinking about them all, actually.
Not long ago, this team was a shell of its former self, but now, so many members call it home.
My own running seems to have inspired many. To think that they would wish to run alongside me...
You set a fire in their hearts. Kind of like how Oguri Cap inspired us.
Perhaps... That makes me proud, but also a little embarrassed. It's a complicated feeling.
For some, winning the spring Tenno Sho and saving a star team would be more than enough...
But for me... it's made me realize I have more that I want to accomplish.
For example?
I want to keep running. To live up to everyone's expectations by winning even more races.
Even more striking than Mejiro McQueen's smile is the determination gleaming in her eyes.
Then I'll be expecting great things, McQueen.
Yes, and I have no intention of letting you down.
8. To Be a Shining Star
55 linesAutumn's first race arrives, and Mejiro McQueen comfortably places first in the Kyoto Daishoten.
With each new race she runs, she earns still greater respect and admiration.
I'm shook! You can't take two steps without seeing McQueen's face on some magazine or screen!
I never expected to draw quite this much attention...
Wow, it's Major McKeen! Can you shake my hand?
Yes, I'd be happy to. Also, it's "Mejiro McQueen."
Even the whippersnappers know 'er. Ey, Star Umamusume?
Really... Can't you stop with the jokes for even a second?
I'm gonna cheer real loud for you in the next race too. Do your best, Major McKeen!
Thank you very much. I definitely have to win now! Also, it's "Mejiro McQueen."
See you! Bye-bye!
Goodbye now!
I can't say that I am used to these kinds of interactions. Reputation is a strange thing.
What's that? Don't tell me you're going to turn into a jittery mess.
Th-that is definitely not going to happen. As a member of the prestigious Mejiro family, I always carry myself with dignity!
Oh yeah? Well, I don't see why you can't just jitter out sometimes.
Morning, McQueen.
McQueen, good news! It looks like there are a ton more people asking to transfer into our team!
My, the applications haven't stopped since the Kyoto Daishoten.
It's all thanks to your efforts, McQueen.
It would be super amazing if you could also win the autumn Tenno Sho. Imagine winning both spring and fall!
The number of new applicants would be through the roof!
Please, you're all speaking like I've already won.
It's no wonder everyone's so excited. You're showing no signs of slowing down!
It's been a while since Team Sirius has had this much attention. Probably not since the heyday of the last trainer.
Oh, we are so back.
You've got my front-row cheers!
Thank you for your enthusiastic support, everyone. I will be winning the next race.
With that being said, let's start today's training.
True to her bold words, McQueen brings an inspiring amount of energy to the day's training session.
Whoa, look at 'er go!
And that's a finish! A flawless win, and you took the initiative at the best possible moment!
Pant, pant, pant...
Well, of course. At the Takarazuka Kinen, I failed to seize a good position and had to take wide arcs around the turns.
If I want to ensure that races go my way, I need to pay extra attention to my dash power and positioning.
Ho ho ho. Mayhaps you will soon be able to face me, young one.
Before you worry about racing me, perhaps you should try passing the basic gate test.
All right folks, let's wrap it up here for today. Be sure to ice those legs.
Oh, then I'm going to go for another one, too.
Me too! If McQueen can still do it, so can we!
Hm? Please don't force yourselves...
Nah, it's fine! Seeing you run gives us the power!
All right, just a bit more.
Goodness. Once more, then.
Golly, they make it look easy. Guess I'll spice things up!
Hey! Hands off the tail!
Mejiro McQueen's industrious attitude has had nothing but good effects on the team.
She very much is the heart and soul of Team Sirius.
Trainer!
Tazuna! You need me?
There's something I'd like to discuss with you concerning McQueen.
9. Drifting Astray in Autumn Winds
61 linesYou want me to do an interview?
Yes. According to Tazuna, the reporters are practically climbing over the gates for a chance to talk to you.
They must be extra interested now that you're the favorite to win the autumn Tenno Sho.
So it would seem...
What's wrong? Don't wanna do it? Then send me instead!
A simple "I'm currently abstaining from my beloved cakes for my diet." will convince them.
Wait, did you see me pacing in front of that cake shop earlier?!
I don't remember mandating a diet... It must be self-imposed.
A slice or two couldn't hurt, you know?
No, it's quite all right. If I give in to temptation once, who knows what other excuses I'll make?
Anyway, I will go and speak to the reporters.
You're currently the favorite for the autumn Tenno Sho. How confident are you in your ability to take home the win?
Very much so. However, one never knows what may happen during a race. I wish to approach the contest free from arrogance.
There are some very notable competitors slated to run that day. What kind of strategy are you thinking of employing?
Well, ah...
Mejiro McQueen glances my way, her expression seemingly asking if that is a topic she should broach.
I'm afraid that we can't share those details.
Let's just say that it would be great if we could get a starting position on the inside.
I've heard that at one point, your team consisted only of yourself.
That's right, though we have managed to turn things around as of late.
Would it be accurate to chalk that up to your performance at the spring Tenno Sho?
McQueen looks my way again. I sense that she's struggling to come up with a good answer to that question.
Yes, that is why we're here today.
Even when the team was on the verge of disbandment, she pulled through and attracted new talent with her achievement.
McQueen's efforts have been a big inspiration for the others.
I see. We're expecting big things from you here on out!
McQueen?
Huh? Oh! Yes! Thank you.
Lastly, do you have anything you'd like to say to your fans?
I'm honored that you would support me to the point where I am the favorite to win.
I'll be devoting my all to my training in preparation for the race. I do not plan on letting you down.
Sheesh, so serious! Couldn't shake up the typical interview a bit?
Again, that's because I am serious.
Yeah, but all of your answers were sooo cool!
I really can't wait for the race!
It's not just the fans who are expecting great things of Mejiro McQueen.
I can't think of anyone more deserving to stand at the center of a team.
All right, why don't we go get something tasty to charge us back up?
Wooo, hella! I'm about to go to town on some all-you-can-eat lobster!
I've been wanting to try that place with the famous carrot sweets lately!
Geez, this is a celebration for McQueen, so let's let her pick, all right?
Um... I'm afraid I will have to refrain.
I should really move on to my training for today. That interview took up a lot of precious time.
Seriously, you're gonna go out for training now? You really good on keeping up this pace?
Don't worry, I won't push myself too hard. The last thing I need is a repeat of the time I fell ill.
But I'm finally hitting my stride with my routine. I can't let this chance go to waste.
Is it fine with you, Trainer?
I'll leave it up to you.
Thank you. Well then, I shall be off.
Super serious, that one.
At last, the day of the autumn Tenno Sho arrives.
Wow, those stands are absolutely packed.
Meaning that Golshi Yakisoba's on track for some record profits! I've got noods to fry!
What, and miss cheering for McQueen? Speaking of, where is she?
She's already on her way out there, yo.
Really? But there's still so much time left before the race starts...
Phew...
I have the dignity of the Mejiro name to bear... the hopes of countless fans on my shoulders...
My dear team members' expectations, and those of my trainer...
For all of their sakes, I will achieve victory today.
10. Gloomy Skies
61 linesThe judges have ruled that first-place finisher Mejiro McQueen illegally obstructed other Umamusume during the race.
Her placement will be adjusted to eighteenth.
The race unfolded with a great start for Mejiro McQueen. She navigated to the inner track in an attempt to find a good position.
Unfortunately, this hampered the movement of the runners behind her, resulting in a situation where many were in danger of falling.
As this was caused by the race's favorite to win, the public reaction was significant.
McQueen, are you okay?
Huh? Oh, yes, of course.
I can't deny that my actions posed a risk to other competitors, betraying the high expectations placed upon me.
I simply need to move on and improve myself.
I'll put this failure of a race behind me by succeeding in the next.
Just don't be so hard on yourself, okay? We can plainly see that you've reflected well enough on this.
That's right! I'll be looking forward to your next race!
Fight on, McQueen!
Let's treat this as a learning experience.
Yes, I plan to do so.
Yo, anyone miss me?
There were a bunch of creeps with cameras out there so I screamed, "Look, a buncha creeps!"
Those were no doubt reporters.
I can only imagine that they were just waiting for a chance to catch me.
Well, don't sweat it. They weren't supposed to be in the academy anyway, so they really were creeps.
The last of them should be gone soon enough. Let's hold off on any actual training today, though.
It's not as if I am particularly bothered by the idea of answering their questions. I would do so with full honesty.
And at some point, I will need to speak with them about my plans to win my next race.
I'm in the mood to move my body. Let's go, Trainer!
...All right.
The dorm is just over there. I don't think you need to accompany me any longer.
I don't want you to get caught up alone with a bunch of rabid reporters.
Like I said, I do not mind answering their questions.
Ah, McQueen! May I get your comments in regards to the autumn Tenno Sho?
Why did you choose to run in such a dangerous manner?
I apologize for causing such dire inconvenience toward all of those involved with the race.
This incident was the result of my own foolish inexperience. I can make no excuses.
Have you spoken to the runners who were caught up behind you?
I paid each of them a visit to apologize personally.
Was it your trainer who instructed you to force your way to the inside?
Instructions from my trainer? We discussed nothing of the sort!
That was entirely the result of my own judgment. My trainer has nothing to do with this incident!
Despite keeping her cool thus far, McQueen grows indignant when faced with this question.
I know she wants to answer their questions with honesty, and I intended to let her do so if it would help her sort out her own emotions.
However, the sight of her trying to shoulder all of the responsibility on her own is too much for me to bear.
Let's go, McQueen.
But if I leave now, they'll assume that this was your fault somehow!
Regardless of whose judgment call it was, as her trainer, I take full responsibility for what happened. My deepest apologies.
Trainer!
Come on, let's get going.
Don't let it bother you, McQueen. You were simply running your heart out. There is nothing to blame on you.
You said you were going to put this behind you, right? Let's put all of our energy towards the next race.
...Understood.
But um... Trainer?
I've decided that I want to run in the Japan Cup before the Arima Kinen.
That's so soon, though. Surely you're still tired from the race you just ran...
No, I'm perfectly fine. I'm ready to give it my full power.
Please allow me to enter the Japan Cup.
I imagine that she hopes to put this incident away as quickly as possible.
Not only that, but she likely means it as a way to redeem herself in the eyes of fans and those she troubled.
All right. Our next race will be the Japan Cup.
Thank you. I am absolutely... absolutely going to win.
Wooooooo!
McQueen is struggling to keep up. The gap is widening!
Today's favorite, Mejiro McQueen, places fourth!
11. The Hurdle of Expectations
54 linesI apologize, everyone. That was certainly not the performance I wanted to give.
Hey now, why the heck are you apologizin'? You're making it sound like you've crimed us or somethin'.
And the Japan Cup is just a bonkers race, yeah? Finishin' fourth with all the other stars out there is pretty dang respectable.
She's right! I was just as enraptured with your running today as I have ever been!
Plus, no crazy incidents happened today. Our trainer here's definitely gonna treat ya to somethin' nice, right?
Huh? Oh, yeah! That's right! Let's go stuff our faces, McQueen!
I... must politely decline.
I have the Arima Kinen to prepare for, and I'm not even hungry, having just finished a race.
Ah, and I must make a call to Grandmother. Please go ahead without me.
Everyone... I am so, so sorry.
McQueen!
Guess that wasn't very convincing... You too, though. You suck at acting!
Sorry. It took me a second to catch on, but I tried...
When McQueen fled the room, I wasn't sure whether to go after her or give her some space, a moment of indecision I'm already regretting.
Excuse me.
Hey, if it isn't Oguri! Didja come out to cheer for McQueen?
Of course. I owe this team a lot, and I heard its brightest star would be running.
But where is that star, might I ask?
Yeah, she, uhh...
Hm... It seems something happened here. Will you tell me about it?
I tell Oguri Cap everything that transpired since she departed from the team.
About how we were in danger of being disbanded, and how we were able to overcome that by recruiting new members.
About the embarrassment McQueen had suffered at the autumn Tenno Sho, and her attempt to redeem herself today, only to place fourth.
I explain how everything keeps failing to come together for Mejiro McQueen, no matter how she tries to make the pieces fit.
I see. I can sympathize with her quite a bit.
She's convinced herself that she has to live up to every expectation of her.
You think so?
I went through the same thing.
Good results breed expectations, and before you know it, you've bound yourself to meet those expectations.
Soon, they all start to feel like obstacles in your path.
Obstacles... I see.
The only reason this team is still around is because Mejiro McQueen was there for us.
Everyone looks up to her... aspires to be like her.
And it's not just the other runners. I piled on the pressure with every victory, too.
It's obvious now that she has been struggling with everything riding on her shoulders.
As a trainer, perhaps you could find a way to turn those obstacles into a source of power.
From obstacles to power...
Oguri, how did the old man go about helping you do that?
Hm, I suppose I could tell you...
But it's just what worked for us. You and McQueen have your own special bond.
I think you'd best approach it in a way that works for you.
The bond that McQueen and I share...
I have none of the skill or charisma that my mentor possessed, yet McQueen still trusted me to be her trainer.
Just why did she choose to place her faith in me? What can I do now in her hour of need?
Hehe, no hesitation at all. That part of you hasn't changed at all from your assistant trainer days.
Always putting us first...
That's it. That's what I need to do. I need to stand by her side, and offer her my faith and support.
I'm going to go look for McQueen.
Mmkay. Well, I guess I'll go loiter around the academy road and near the station.
I'll go see if she went back to the academy!
And I'll go looking around the racecourse!
Maybe she went to the shrine? I'll drop by and check!
Thank you, all of you. Let's go!
Our team's ace needs us now more than ever!
12. Welcome Back, Ace
60 linesMy own chapter in the history of Team Sirius began with only Mejiro McQueen at my side.
Her incredible ability to capture hearts and minds has been the crux of our team's growth.
But with every person she inspired, the weight of their expectations grew heavier.
Pant, pant... McQueen!
T-Trainer?
This reminds me, something similar happened before.
Just when I was about to break down, you came running after me.
I suppose what happens next will be no different as well.
It's all I can do. There is just so much I have yet to figure out as a trainer...
I didn't even realize that my hopes for you were turning into obstacles in your path.
But it's not just that we expect a lot from you... You've inspired everyone on Team Sirius.
How can you find inspiration in someone who can't even run according to race rules?
Someone who has caused so much nuisance toward my fellow racers, and even my trainer?
Because we have faith in you.
No matter how many mistakes trip you up along the way...
You'll keep going, and we'll keep cheering.
We believe in you, and that's not changing just because of a bad race or two!
Trainer...
Remember what they said about Oguri? That she couldn't win anymore?
But everyone on the team supported Oguri right until the very end.
No matter the results, she went into every race determined to make us proud, and that's what made her our ace.
An "ace"... Someone the team takes pride in, win or lose...
Have I... really become such an Umamusume in the eyes of others?
Am I really their ace? Am I inspiring everyone to chase their dreams?
Of course you are.
Hic... Ah... Waaaugh!
Mejiro McQueen breaks into tears, releasing all of the pressure that had built up within her.
Um... I've returned.
Oh, hey there!
Welcome back, McQueen!
What would Grandmother think if she knew that one of her precious ladies was spending her time out late at night?
We were worried about you, McQueen.
Not only did I fail to win today's race, but I also caused you all to worry so much. I'm not sure what to say...
Hey now, that's so not the point! No more gloomy words from you, missy!
H-hey! What on, what are you doing!
You've got somethin' to say, right? People hear you better when you speak from on high, yeah?
I-I...
I'm going to go back out there and run, my head held high!
I might lose again, and I might even cry!
But despite that, I will shoulder your hopes and keep running, as your team's ace!
You go, McQueen!
I'm always, always going to believe in you!
Let's go, ace!
You know, that was pretty cool, McQueen.
Let's keep running together for as long as we can!
It looks like you figured out how to turn those expectations into strength, McQueen.
G-geez, I've said everything on my mind. You can let me down now!
The laughs coming from the training staff room continue to echo through the halls late into the night.
One month later...
Phew...
Aahhh... I'm getting all nervous!
Yeah, why does it feel like this when it's not even our race?
That's because you see some of your own hopes and dreams in me.
And that is exactly what is going to propel me forward today.
Get out there and snatch that Grand Prix Umamusume title, McQueen!
Good luck, McQueen.
Thank you. I'll be back soon!
One year ago, Oguri Cap made a miracle happen at the Arima Kinen. And today, we stand ready to make our mark at the very same race.
Welcome to the year's final major bout, the Arima Kinen! The race is about to start!
13. Soaring Star Mejiro McQueen
56 linesOh, she's back!
McQueen, great work out there!
You've all come back to meet me? I'm touched.
Second place, you were so close! 'Twas a great race!
Everyone out there today was in absolute top form.
Yes, there is no doubt about that. I could tell that everyone had prepared well, and their focus was laser-sharp.
This time, I was simply beaten fair and square.
You seem quite pleased, considering.
This race was nothing if not fruitful. I have a clear idea of what I need to improve on for next time.
Every race is a learning experience. Also...
Also?
Unlike at the Japan Cup, I simply felt satisfied with myself and my running.
I was able to convert all of your expectations into power.
Give it your all at the next one too, McQueen!
Yes, of course.
Lookin' forward to it, ace!
I already know that it's going to be a fabulous race!
I intend to show you exactly what an ace is capable of.
All right, I think we're done here. I heard Trainer's got a huge feast lined up for us!
Sure do! I even put aside some of my last paycheck just for this!
...Oh, did you now?
As you know, I was watching how much I ate in preparation for this race. I am quite famished.
Have you ever dined together with so many hungry Umamusume at once?
Um...
Oh hey, we should totally invite Oguri and Ryan too!
W-wait a minute! My wallet's definitely not that full!
Sorry, no takebacks!
Hehe, let's go, Trainer!
A year after Oguri Cap's miraculous Arima Kinen performance... Team Sirius begins yet another new chapter.
Though they may have stumbled a bit along the way, the team's rookie ace and rookie trainer never stopped running forward.
There is still much room to grow before Sirius reaches the same heights as time past...
However, the passion inherited from the previous generation is firmly woven into the fabric of the team.
It's time, everyone.
You can do it, ace! ♪
I heard that if you can pull off this double-W, there's a pile of sweets waitin' for ya!
Oh! Is that true?!
You shouldn't have said that. How will she concentrate now?!
I mean, I thought that would get her fired up. Did it backfire?
Hey, ace! Get your mind back on the course!
Y-yes, you're absolutely right! The course... Focus on the... dessert course...
McQueen, your rival today is the undefeated Tokai Teio.
Judging by the way she's raced so far, she's a force to be reckoned with. And to back that up, she's also today's favorite to win.
But I know that in the end, you'll cross that finish line first!
Hehe... Yes, I should think so. With all of your support as my tailwind, I feel ready to soar any distance!
We're expecting great things, ace!
Yes. I'm going to win.
Wooooo!
Mejiro McQueen! Mejiro McQueen! She extends her lead to three lengths!
Mejiro McQueen crosses the finish! She is the first Umamusume in history to ever achieve two consecutive victories at the spring Tenno Sho!
Wooooo!
Congratulations, McQueen!
Sob... I can't believe it!
Our ace is just the best...