Fine Motion's story

Also seen at the Embassy of Ireland's gala yesterday was a distinguished young guest currently studying abroad at the Japan Umamusume Training Center Academy.

Hmm... What should I do? ...Oh! Pardon, may I have a moment of your time?

Indeed I do. Hehe, I'm terribly sorry to have startled you. I was hoping to consult a local about something.

You see, I heard that this convenience shop had a dining counter. I purchased a cup of ramen and took it to a seat, but...

I'm afraid the server never came to prepare the noodles. Would you happen to know if the dining service is closed today?

Eh? I get to make it myself?! Me, making ramen?! Why, that... that...

Oh, that sounds wonderful! If I may ask, where might I find this hot-water dispenser?

Sigh. That was such a lovely experience! To have shopping, cooking, and dining services all in one shop, it really is convenient!

I cannot thank you enough for your kind guidance. ♪ Now, if I may ask...

Could I trouble you to escort me to Ramen Rampage?

...Oh, no, I'm sorry! Ehehe, it seems I got ahead of myself. A local student would look the route up online, wouldn't they?

...Seiyaaa!

Wow! Did he... He did! He just did the Rampage Colander Cross! I can't believe I'm seeing it live!

Yes! It's the technique he uses to drain the starchy water he boiled the ramen in. It preserves the integrity of the noodles' texture and the flavor of the rich chicken stock!

When I read about it online, I just knew I had to see it for myself! Ahhh... It was worth the forty-three-day wait!

The glistening beads of water, cast vigorously into flight but inches from my eyes... The chef's passion stokes the appetite more than I ever could have imagined!

I truly cannot thank you enough for escorting me. You have my deepest gratitude!

Oh, but you did. I have no doubt I'll be cherishing this experience for the rest of my life!

Oh, it's almost sundown! That's a shame. I was thinking to squeeze in one more stop.

I know, but it's not the dormitory's curfew I'm, Oh.

...Your Highness, please pardon the intrusion, but your excursion was only permitted on the grounds that you would return by sunset. Please make your way to the dormitory.

And you, it was not our intent to disturb your conversation. However...

Our charge, Fine Motion, descends from a royal bloodline. Though her noble house has since come to reside in Ireland...

...Thank you for your concern, Captain. I'll return to the dormitory as soon I finish thanking my gracious host.

Hehe. I hope my security didn't scare you. Thank you again for everything. I made some truly wonderful memories today!

Please take this as a token of my appreciation.

Wait, aren't you, oh wow! That badge... I didn't realize you were a trainer!

Ahaha, there's no need for that! Call me Fine Motion. It's nice to see you again, I had a wonderful time the other day!

What a coincidence, though. Who would've thought I'd see you here... Although, I suppose this must be an excellent learning opportunity for a trainer!

As for me, I'm here to watch... someone amazing.

You're welcome to join me if you'd like. I got up extra early to get a good spot! Let's cheer her on together!

They've entered the backstretch! Today's favorite, T.M. Opera O, cruises along at the center of the pack. At the rear, we have Air Shakur, keeping an eye on the competition!

Heh. Just you watch!

Shakur! Good luuuck!

Shakur is such an inspiring racer. She's so clever... but she's also painstakingly straightforward when it comes to her goals!

They round the final corner and begin their last spurt down the homestretch! T.M. Opera O breaks away from the pack, is the lead hers?!

Not yet! Watch what Shakur's doing. The last spurt is where she shines brightest!

Hraaaaaah!

Air Shakur! Air Shakur chases the lead! What precision, Air Shakur catches up just before the goal! Will it be enough?!

Ah... Shakur!

That was a great race, Shakur! Especially the last spurt, the way you caught up was breathtaking! My heart is still going wild...

Tch... Catch up, my ass. I got second, idiot.

Yes, well... I know you wanted to win, but... that doesn't change how impressive your technique was one bit.

The sheer precision you displayed shows just how much time you spent calculating everything. And then the fierce determination as you ran... It really, truly was stunning.

I made a very special memory today. Thank you, Shakur!

...Ugh, whatever.

Ahh, I can't get over it! Shakur was so cool! Wasn't the last spurt amazing? The way she went all-out at the end gave me chills!

I keep seeing it over and over in my head! She was biding her time at first, and then she took off like, like...

Ah! Your Highness, come back!

Huff, huff... Not yet... Not yet! I have to save my stamina, and then...

Huff, huff... Now! The last... spurt! Yaaaah!

Your Highness! Wh-what on earth do you think you're doing?! Have you forgotten the terms of the study abroad trip? You mustn't over-exert yourself!

Eh? ...Oh! I beg your pardon! I don't know what came over me... I'm sorry.

Ahaha... Yes, I'm afraid it does.

I was given leave to study abroad on the condition that I'd avoid anything dangerous. That includes strenuous physical activities, so... no running, and certainly no races.

Silly as it sounds, I wanted to study at Tracen, no matter what it took!

There are Umamusume my age, pouring their whole hearts into their dreams... I wanted to talk to them, to be their friend.

All in the hopes that someday those memories will give me strength. When it comes time to shoulder my own fate, I'll have all these wonderful experiences to draw upon.

Hehe, I'm lucky that Japan is such a safe country! I don't know how I would've convinced my father otherwise.

I've already made so many friends, I got to visit restaurants I dreamed of, and I've seen top-class races in person.

I'll be going home with the biggest smile!

...Eh?

Oh, um... I...

...Your Highness. It is growing cold. You should return to the dormitory.

Hey. You. Do you have any idea what that little stunt did to her?

Cut the crap! You know what I mean! ...Damn it.

If you haven't got the guts to follow through, then piss off and stop making things worse.

Father, wait right there! I'll zoom over really fast! Ready, go!

(I loved running. I think... I probably always did.)

(Even then, I knew it wasn't forever. The only course I'd ever run was a little path through a walled-off garden. The only goal I'd ever cross was the line of clovers at the edge.)

(And that was enough for me. I wasn't un happy.)

"The challenge of your dreams... Go all out... for your moment in the spotlight." Oh, wow! Everything looks so amazing!

"All at the Japan Umamusume Training Center Academy!" ...I wish I could go!

(This is ... what I wanted.)

Ah! Y-you surprised me. Um, can I help you? You look rather scary.

How I feel about them? As in... what you asked before? Whether I'm satisfied with the experience I'm getting?

Well, I think... I already said I am.

I appreciate your concern, of course! It's just that... my life is on a completely different track from the other Umamusume here.

My duty is to bring peace and prosperity to the land that welcomed my house. That is my calling, my pride, and why I am here, broadening my horizons.

Does that make sense? I wasn't raised to be a runner.

...!

My...

My... dreams?

What? You want me to race Fine for "practice"?

Your memory's worse than your grandma's PC. I'm not repeating myself again. Piss off with the lukewarm goody-two-shoes act!

...Oh yeah?

Trainer, I must ask that you give Her Highness's safety due consideration.

Heh, they've got you marked.

At risk of sounding rude, I think you fail to see the gravity of your proposal. You are knowingly exposing a dignitary to danger.

If anything happened to her, you would lose everything.

...No, you do not "understand"! As captain of her security, I must do all in my power to prote...

...!

Tch... Shut up, both of you!

...Now. First things first, when's the scrimmage?

Captain... You're sure? You'll really let me run? Practice or not, it's still a race.

The trainer is willing to bet their livelihood to help you pursue your goals. With respect for that conviction, and for your wishes...

...And as someone who has been by your side for this long, I will not oppose your decision. Please, do as you see fit.

I...

HEY! Are we running or aren't we?!

This is your chance. Don't give me your "I'm happy just watching" crap, got it?

...Shakur.

The stands and the track are different worlds, princess. Don't think you understand our passion, our obsession, just 'cause you watched a couple races.

So follow me, Fine. And stop playing dumb. I know you want it.

Huff, huff...

(Wow... I can feel each step reverberate through my legs. The scenery vanishes behind me. My heartbeat is deafening. And I'm... I'm really running!)

Hah! C'mon, is that all you got, princess?!

(Shakur! The way she's pressuring me... it's giving me chills! If I don't hurry, she'll leave me behind! But... but! Somehow...)

I... can still... I can still go faster! Haaaaah!

...Heh, that's more like it! But I'm not letting you off easy! Hraaaaah!

Aaaaah!

(Ah... I can't believe it. My heart is throbbing. My soul is screaming, go faster! Go further! Run, run, RUN!)

I... I want to run too!

Huff, huff...

Heh. Looks like I'm faster.

Hehe... You win. Oh, I'm so frustrated!

Trainer! ...Thank you. I truly appreaciate the opportunity to confront my heart.

And... I believe I owe you an apology. I wasn't entirely honest about my thoughts before.

I... don't want to go home yet.

I want to stay here and run more and more and more!

Attention! The paperwork to extend Fine Motion's study abroad period is ready, and the proposal for race admission is written!

Wahaha! Think nothing of it! Tracen Academy takes great pride in making Umamusume dreams come true. Fine Motion is no exception!

Not to mention, you did a great deal of the work yourself! I must commend your work ethic. It is superb!

However, what remains to be done is... pivotal! Fine Motion, are you ready?

You must obtain parental consent yourself. Your father needs to hear your goals from you!

Understood!

We've confirmed that both parties are ready to begin. Now... please allow me to start the call.

It's been too long, Father.

Fine... I've seen your proposal, so I'll skip directly to my primary concern, has your short time abroad dulled your sense of duty to this country?

Never. I am fully aware of my responsibilities, and it is with nothing but pride that I endeavor to fulfill them. They are precisely why I have hesitated to make this selfish request.

However, I... I can no longer deny my heart. Now, here at Tracen, I wish so strongly to run!

...The passions of one's youth are fleeting, but the future they distract you from will come regardless. Should you indulge in those fantasies, you'll find yourself miserably unprepared to live without them.

Fine... You are wise beyond your years. I know you can see how rocky the path that tempts you is, so tell me, do you wish to take it even so?

Yes, I do!

...!

You see, Father, it's too late. I have already run with all my heart, a rival at my side, and felt that burning desire to be faster than anyone!

I can't stop... nor do I wish to. I want to race! I want to push myself, and see how far my own two legs can take me!

...I see.

If you are so certain of your choice, I will have you demonstrate your conviction. Show me that you are prepared, determined... and have potential worth training.

One, two... One, two... Whew. I have my work cut out for me, if I'm going to show Father results.

This race will draw eyes, and I have a country to do proud... I'll prove that I've got what it takes!

What pressure? I'm fine! I couldn't be happier!

I mean... I get to run!

Now, Trainer! I'll pull out all the stops, so train me like there's no tomorrow!

Inhale... Whew!

Okay! Here goes!

Trainer. Our preparations are complete. I'll put you through, so please standby at the monitor.

...As I understand, you are the trainer who first noticed Fine's true feelings towards racing.

You know, she's always been a clever one. Fine accepted our family's duty from an early age, and has played her part perfectly since, without letting the girl inside show.

Now, though... We'll see.

Huff... Huff...

More... Keep... going! I can still go faster! Haaaaah!

(Ah, that look. It's been so long, I almost forgot... that twinkle of light in her eyes.)

Ready... Go! Ahahahaha!

And the winner of this tryout race is Fine Motion! Fine Motion takes first! What an amazing performance!

...Well. I suppose I, too, should allow myself the occasional selfish wish. I wish her success, not as the head of our house... but as her plain, simple father.

(I should have known she'd follow in her sister's footsteps eventually... Racing is in their blood.)

...I can't believe it.

Oh, I must be dreaming! Father really gave permission for me to race!

Thank you! And I believe this calls for a "winner winner ramen dinner"! ♪

Ahem. If you would be so kind...

Would you escort me to the restaurant, Trainer?

Later, Fine! Today was a real workout!

Go get some rest! See you tomorrow!

Hehe. It was so much fun, I didn't notice how tired I am. Every day is so lovely, it feels like I'm dreaming.

That aside, though, I think it's time we called it a day. Let's head back to your office and have our meeting!

Wait... What happened?!

Hmmm... That's the thing, the room was locked with no one inside. But surely the cabinet didn't knock itself over, with how far the papers are scattered.

It's like we're in a book! Oh, Trainer! I think we've stumbled upon a bona fide mystery!

Hehehe, don't you worry now... Detective Fine is on the case!

Ah, ahem... Now, we've got a crime scene to investigate! I've read that observation is a detective's greatest asset.

...And would you look at that?! My dear assistant, I do believe our perpetrator has left us footprints!

Hehehe, I told you I've got more than ramen up in my noggin! I bet these tracks will lead us straight to the truth.

Meow!

..."Meow"?

I see... The pieces are all coming together!

The culprit... is you!

MREOOOW!

It's okay, we aren't mad at you. Come on out.

Oh? It looks like you've got a collar.

The question is, whose? I guess our poor little friend must have got themself lost and wandered here.

Mew... Mreow!

Shhh, don't worry. We'll help you get home.

Of course! We'll have this case cracked in no time! First order of business, asking around for clues. ♪

I can't thank you two enough! I was terrified we'd never find our little baby!

It was our pleasure. We'll take our leave now, so have a wonderful evening.

Ahem! I would say that's case closed! And I couldn't have done it without my trusty sidekick.

Hehe, that was fun. I wasn't expecting such an adventure.

Oh, it really is. Hehe, a little surprise to liven up the routine... Something special...

Hehe, I think I can arrange that.

Inhale... Exhale... Ah, the air is so fresh out here in the forest! It reminds me of mornings in the garden back home.

...That will be all, Trainer. Please remain vigilant, and ensure Her Highness's safety.

Hehehe, thank you again for your time, Trainer. They certainly wouldn't have let me come this far out alone.

Oh, that's an excellent question. Hehehe, you see...

...I haven't planned anything! I just thought we'd have ourselves a nice, normal stroll in the great outdoors.

Yes, although, um... You never know what surprises could be waiting out there.

...Ah, that was delicious! Not to toot my own horn, but the cold noodles I packed came out perfectly.

And made it so far, too. No more city, just the creek gurgling, birds singing, bugs chirping... It feels like we wandered into a fairytale world.

You know, it reminds me of a story I read when I was little. The hero saves the princess, and they're running through the woods together...

And then, the dragon catches up to steal the princess back. It actually attacks them in a remote clearing just like this.

...Hehe. It feels like the dragon could pop out any second, doesn't it?

Oh, it's just a "what-if," silly. But if a dragon really did jump out... You would fight to protect me... Right?

Really?! I'm flattered! Aw, now I almost wish a dragon would appear.

GrooooOOOOOOAR!

Ah! Trainer, look! There's something in the river!

Graaaaawr!

A dragon! Oh no! Don't come any closer!

Aaah! Whatever am I to do? The evil dragon is going to eat me!

Oh, if only, if only a hero would slay the dragon and rescue me from my plight...

Rooooar!

My hero! May courage guide your hand!

Groooar! I have fallen!

Thank goodness! You were so dashing, Trainer!

Hehehe. Congratulations.

Hehe. Three, two, one!

Surpriiiise!

Hehehe... Remember the other day, when we helped take that kitty home?

I kept thinking to myself what a nice surprise it was, so I decided to plan another, just for you!

...How was it? Did you like it?

I'm so glad! All that rehearsal was worth it, I see. ♪

I'm also happy you kept your promise, that you'd protect me from the dragon.

...Hehe. Thank you.

Oh, welcome back, lassie. Can I getcha the usual?

Yes, for three, please.

Whew... After all that, it feels nice to be back. Thank you both for such an exciting outing.

Heh. I've got quite a lot of practice being the dragon. Her Highness even made me a medal for it when she was little.

Haha, I remember that! The medal for draconic excellence, right? I made it with flowers, twigs, and clovers.

Now that you mention it, I wonder what award I should give our dashing hero. How about... "the dragon slayer's medallion"?

Congratulations, Dragon Slayer. Just so you know, though, I'm also a decorated actor of witches and fortresses. You've not bested me yet.

Order up. Three bowls of savory shio ramen, with extra toppings.

...Eh?! The savory shio ramen doesn't come with menma or corn, and I didn't say anything. How did you know?

I remember my regulars' usual orders, toppings and all. The extras are on the house, so you three enjoy 'em.

We absolutely will. Thank you so much!

The "usual," though... I suppose there's a lot of charm in the ordinary everyday routine, too.

Hehe. It's odd to think that I'm a "regular" here now. Eating ramen and chatting with everyone has become such a normal part of my life.

You know, I think maybe, just maybe...

No, it's nothing. I was just struck by what a lovely day it's been.

The ocean!

No, far from it. Though it is the first time I've been to one with so many friends. It's like a dream come true.

Hehe, the sensation of sand between my toes, and just... everything. It feels like such a treasure to be here!

It really is! Oh, is that a hermit crab? I wonder if it's looking for a new shell.

Hey, little guy. Can I help you look? I bet this beach is full of beautiful shells!

All right, are we all ready to run some laps? ...Hang on, where'd Fine go?

Oh, there she is! Looks like she's already started jogging! C'mon, let's hurry and catch up!

Mmm, that was lovely! What was "candy floss" in Japanese, again? "Wata-ame," right? The way it melts in your mouth is so delightful!

...Hehe. All this training, and playing, and cooking, and treasure hunts. Ghost stories and now a big festival... This camp really had it all.

Ah! Fireworks!

They're so... so beautiful...

...And then in a blink, they're memories, like all the other precious moments we shared.

I think, maybe it's their fleeting nature that makes them linger so vividly in the mind when they're gone. Do you know what I mean?

...Ah, no, I'm sorry. I hope I didn't spoil the festival mood with the sentimental talk.

What do you say we give the stalls another round? I spotted a sign for jumbo takoyaki down that way!

Whew! That's the whole training set for today, I believe. It feels like it's been forever since I ran on the academy track.

Agreed. Although, you never know when life will surprise you.

Ahaha, I'm afraid not this time. Though it would be fun to have little surprises like the lost kitty. You know, just from time to time.

Well, I don't know what I expected. Not that I want there to be lost pets, mind you. Ahaha.

...Eh? Is this... instant ramen? Was this always here?

Ooh, Shura Ramen III? I don't think I've ever seen this kind!

Really?! Thank you, Trainer! Let me boil some water...

...Hm? What do you mean? I thought you only needed water.

You... can? You can add other things?! But that means... the possibilities are infinite!

Oh my goodness! My mind is racing with ideas already! I have to try them all!

Trainer! Why don't we make a quick grocery run? Let's make our very own ramen together!

Hmm hm hmm hm hmmm ♪ We've got sprouts, lettuce, mushrooms, minced meat, and eggs.

Ah, hey Fine! Whatcha up to?

Hehehe. Well, my trainer and I are planning to test the best toppings for instant ramen, so we're out buying ingredients.

Ramen toppings? I guess you could try some random meat and cabbage. That's what we'd usually toss in back home.

My dad would always put weird pub snacks in ours. Like he'd put dried salami in, and call it his house special...

Ooh, you've made original ramen before? You have to tell me more! We could all have a big ramen tasting party!

If we play our cards right, Fine'll make it a high-society sensation or something. Can you imagine, royal instant ramen!

Sláinte!

Mmm... Y'know, this salami isn't half bad. It's kinda like those pork flavor packets, but actual meat.

The crab sticks I put in work pretty well too. They add like, I dunno... an extra layer of flavor, I guess?

...An "extra layer." I bet you sound like a food reporter in your head, huh?

Ahaha! They really do taste completely different, though. I might try making it for my parents some time, when I'm back.

Now we're talking! If any of their friends in high places want my secret recipe, I wouldn't mind sharing, as long as they pay me royalties.

Please. As if you invented grocery store ramen. Can it, or your masterpiece is gonna go cold.

Exactly, and the noodles go limp if they sit too long. Ramen is best right in the moment!

It... it all is, isn't it?

Hehe... Nothing, I just realized something important, thanks to you three.

Big special events are all well and good, but I don't have to make everything an occasion.

There's a lot to be said for simply enjoying the time I get to spend with you here and now. Every day is a treasure.

Hehe. Well then, before things go cold...

Let's savor what's in front of us. We can waffle on about the future when it gets here. Right?