Uma Musume: Pretty Derby story ยท Character stories

Fuji Kiseki's story

7 scenes, 396 lines

1. It's Showtime

57 lines

One afternoon following a long day of work, I return to my room, only to realize something was amiss.

Your choice

(My trainer badge is gone!)

It was right on my collar, as per regulations... Did I drop it somewhere? I'd better find it, quickly!

I search frantically for my badge up and down the entire campus, but no luck...

Your choice

(I just can't find it.)

Maybe it fell through a crack or something, I wonder, as my eyes strain to scan the ground.

???

Oof!

Fuji Kiseki

Forgive me! Are you all right? I hope you've suffered no injury.

Your choice

I should be the one to apologize. I wasn't looking...

Fuji Kiseki

Please, we are both unharmed, and that is all that matters! But say... you've the look of someone in a terrible predicament.

I watched as you stared so bleakly at your feet. Might you be in search of some precious family heirloom?

I tell the kind student how I lost my trainer badge and can't find it anywhere.

Fuji Kiseki

Your trainer badge! This is more dire than I feared.

No outsider is permitted to set foot on the grounds of Tracen Academy. Without your insignia, the guards may mistake you for a trespasser...

Have you not heard the tales? There once was a scoundrel prowling the school under the cover of night.

With not a soul to trouble them in the dark, quiet halls, the villain chuckled in victory.

But just then, they heard it. The clip-clop of approaching footsteps... They turned around to suddenly see the wicked grin of... Tazuna!

Your choice

Gulp!

Fuji Kiseki

Hehe... I only kid!

Wise trainer, why not try checking your pockets?

The strange suggestion takes me by surprise, but I reach into my pockets all the same...

Your choice

My badge!

Fuji Kiseki

I'd only just picked it up off the floor, but to think I would meet its owner so soon. What luck!

Judging by your frightened panic and lack of badge, I surmised it to be yours... How right I was!

Your choice

But when did you put it in my pocket?

Fuji Kiseki

When I bumped into you. Sleight of hand is a useful skill of mine! Heh heh, were you shocked?

Perhaps I should have simply handed it over, rather than scare you. I couldn't help but take the chance for a fun surprise... Forgive me.

Ah, that's it! To make up for my devilish trick, let me treat you to a meal. You're sure to be delighted!

Your choice

I really should be thanking you though...

Fuji Kiseki

All the thanks I need is for you to accompany me for a meal! Now, to the cafeteria, my dear trainer!

Pray tell. Have you heard the news? There are special items on the menu today, bread of all sorts!

You won't be wanting for buns with the plethora here. And greatest of all, a delight to surpass even carrot bread... Double carrot bread!

I wonder which one you'd prefer... I shall bring whatever you like, so feel free to tell me!

You must be famished after roving the grounds in your long search. I'm certain a hearty meal will put you back in good spirits!

Fuji Kiseki helps take my mind off everything until the exhaustion from searching for my badge melts away.

Fuji Kiseki

Tell me, Trainer, is it to your liking?

I took all your interests and likes into account when I chose that dessert, you know?

Your choice

It's fantastic!

Fuji Kiseki

Really?! YES! I did it!

Ahem... Pardon me, I was overly excited. Your satisfied face, though, it fills my heart with joy!

Your choice

You're really kind.

Fuji Kiseki

Hahaha, I'd say you're the kind one for thinking so.

I didn't merely want to spend time together, rather, I wanted to provide you with a splendidly pleasurable experience.

For I am Fuji Kiseki, the entertainer who brings joy to all! At least, that is the ideal I wish to become.

Biko Pegasus

FUJIII! We've got an emergency! It's horrible!

Fuji Kiseki

Oh, Biko! What distresses you so?

Biko Pegasus

It's the dorm TV. It's not working! We all wanna watch the evening race... What do we do?!

Fuji Kiseki

Well, that certainly sounds horrible! Fear not, I'm on my way. You were right to come find me, Biko!

Mayano Top Gun

Ah! Fuji, there you are!

Come on, the day's so boooring when you're not around! Show us some cool magic tricks again!

Fuji Kiseki

Ahaha! Darling pony, it must be unbearable. Go wait at the dorm. I shall hurry there in all haste!

Trainer, I must be off, back to our dormitory. Thank you for a splendid time!

Now then, until we meet again!

Fuji Kiseki flashes a charming smile at me as she heads off.

If I remember right, she's the leader of Ritto dorm. They must all depend on her, judging from what I just saw.

Fuji Kiseki, loved by all, wishes to bring joy to everyone... But I wonder how she races.

Before my imagination begins to go wild, I double-check my badge and head home.

2. Miracle Worker

58 lines

A few days after Fuji Kiseki saved me by finding my badge, I see her speaking with a younger student near the school gates.

Fuji Kiseki

I see. So that's what is troubling you.

Junior Student A

Right... I've always wanted to be like my sister and race in the Twinkle Series, but there's no way with my run record.

You know, when she was my age, she was already race-ready. I just don't have any talent, huh...

Fuji Kiseki

Hm...

"Alas, the sword is heavy in hand, and the path of thorns cuts deep. I fear I cannot go on."

"The valiant heroes who saved the people once held firm their swords of deliverance, and cut a path forward through this hill of piercing thorns."

"But I... I cannot. And I could never. Such burden, such pain... I, who cannot bear it, have not the right to be called a hero."

Junior Student A

Uh, Fuji?

Fuji Kiseki

Overcome with despair, she falls to the ground. But then a girl appears who had been watching over her since childhood.

The girl speaks to the woebegone hero. "So long as you do not let go, the right to be a hero will ever be in your hands."

"Never forget, your will is yours forever. You needn't hold a sword, nor run through ripping thorns. You will always have your own path to follow."

The hero then casts her sword and armor aside, and with naught but her own self, she ascends the hill of thorns. With her honed fist, she vanquishes the evil and saves the kingdom.

Trust in all your years of training, and believe in your own will... Okay?

Junior Student A

My training and my will...

Fuji Kiseki

Yes! Blame not your differences with your sister. Instead, try to look within.

There is a path out there, one which can be traversed by you alone!

Junior Student A

Fuji!

Overcome with emotion, the young runner begins to cry, but finds comfort in Fuji Kiseki's kind touch. Finally, she departs with a look of relief on her face.

Fuji Kiseki

Oh? Could it be? The trainer from before!

Your choice

That was really inspiring!

Fuji Kiseki

So you saw all that. I'd like to keep private matters private. You mustn't tell anyone.

You really think she feels better? Well, if a passing trainer thinks so, I suppose it must be true.

I know it's hard to keep a smile on your face all the time... But I want to at least make the little ones happy when I'm around.

My own words lack the same poignancy, so I quoted something from when I saw my mother onstage.

I'll be glad if it lightened the weight on her heart, even if only a little.

Your choice

Your mother's a theater actor?

Fuji Kiseki

That she is! And quite a famous one in those circles.

Her performances are nothing short of legendary! When she appears onstage, one mere utterance rivets the entire audience.

And at each play's end, the theater rumbles with thunderous applause! You can imagine the joy on each person's face!

My mother is the greatest entertainer I've ever known!

Your choice

And so you want to bring that same joy to others now.

Fuji Kiseki

Correct you are. Admiring my mother onstage was the start of it. I even thought to follow in her footsteps onto the big stage at first.

But as you can see... it wasn't meant to be. I was heartbroken, facing the chasm between who I wanted to be... and reality.

That's when my mother quoted those lines to me. And she said, "There's more than one path. Learn to expand your horizons."

So after searching and searching for a new path to follow, I finally found it... racing.

When I first set foot on the turf, I...

Oh, that's right. It's come time for me to race in a scrimmage.

If it pleases you, you must come to watch me.

Obviously, I go to see Fuji Kiseki's race. There, I become truly captivated...

Skilled Trainer A

S-such beautiful running! Look at that polished form, that elegant movement... I'm totally enchanted!

New Trainer A

And the way she accelerates is amazing! Just how fast can she go?! This is so exciting!

Fuji Kiseki

I'll put on a miracle of a performance that will make everyone smile!

For I... am the miracle of the turf, Fuji Kiseki!

Spectators

YEEEAAAH!

I've never heard such a surge of applause at a scrimmage! This shows how captivating she really is!

Skilled Trainer A

Fuji Kiseki, that was an incredible race! I would love to talk to you about becoming your trainer!

New Trainer A

That goes for me too!

Fuji Kiseki

Hehehe, hearing such words brings me great joy! But you must forgive me. Unfortunately, I'm not accepting any offers at this time.

First, you see, I must prove to every trainer at the tryouts that I have what it takes.

Skilled Trainer A

So you would like to give everyone a fair shot at seeing what kind of racer you really are... All right, I'll look forward to it.

Fuji Kiseki

Thank you, one and all!

So long as there are people hoping for a miraculous race, it is this entertainer's mission to give them a show to remember.

I invite you to enjoy the tryouts to your heart's content!

Fuji Kiseki's remarks have a dignity and strength that convey her readiness for anything that comes.

Fuji Kiseki

No matter the stage, I shall entertain one and all.

Yes, no matter the stage...

3. Never Enough

62 lines

The day before tryouts...

Fuji Kiseki

Trainer!

Sigh... I'm so sorry for stopping you, but I'm in search of someone.

Fuji Kiseki informs me that she can't find one of the students under her care. Unfortunately, I have no idea where to look...

Your choice

I'm sorry. I haven't seen her.

Fuji Kiseki

I see... Well, thank you anyway. If you do happen to find her, would you tell her to contact me right away?

No need to say how, every member of Ritto dorm knows my details. Thank you again! Now, I must be off.

Umamusume Junior A

Hey, wasn't that Fuji? I wonder why she was in such a hurry.

Umamusume Junior B

Apparently, a student from Ritto hasn't been seen all day. I heard she might've snuck off and run away from school.

Junior Student A

Ah, well, that's not super rare, huh... Wait, so Fuji's been looking since morning?! The tryouts are tomorrow!

Junior Student B

I know, right? I wonder if she'll be able to train at all... But it's her we're talking about. I'm sure she'll be fine.

Your choice

(I've gotta help look!)

Try as I might to find a student fitting the description Fuji gave me, my search ends in failure.

Meanwhile, it's already grown dark outside.

Fuji Kiseki

Trainer?! What on earth are you doing here? And you're drenched in sweat...

Your choice

I wanted to help with the search.

Fuji Kiseki

Is that so? You're very kind... Thank you for helping out.

I'm afraid to say, this park is the only place left unchecked...

Umamusume Junior C

Sniffle...

Fuji Kiseki

Wait! Did you hear that? Let's go!

Good evening, my darling pony. And what might you be doing in such a lonely place?

Umamusume Junior C

Huh? F-Fuji?! But, why are you here?! You should be preparing for your race tomorrow, not worrying about me!

Fuji Kiseki

I needn't worry about you? Why would you say such a thing? I mean, you're one of my dearest friends at the academy.

Junior Student C

No way! I... I'm no good to anyone here. I'm not fit to be at this school anymore.

The training's way too hard for me. I just wanna see my family... All my motivation to race disappeared like a puff of smoke!

Fuji Kiseki

Your motivation to race... I see.

Don't you want to try reclaiming that feeling? Or would you rather throw this all away and go home?

Junior Student C

I-I dunno...

Umamusume Junior C

I mean, I'd like to get the feeling back, if I can... Running in real races has always been my dream, but...

Fuji Kiseki

Then it's decided! If that is your wish, then I shall make it come true.

Watch me, I'll have you remember your motivation. All of it. In the tryouts tomorrow, I'll show you a real miracle!

Junior Student C

A miracle?

Fuji Kiseki

I mean it. So come on... let's get back to the dorm.

Through an inspiring promise of a miracle, Fuji Kiseki manages to bring the student safely home.

Hishi Amazon

Geez... My nerves are shot, Fuji. I thought we lost you too.

Fuji Kiseki

Hahaha! Forgive me! But I thank you, Hishiama, for watching over things while I was gone.

And Trainer, your efforts were heartening to see!

Your choice

I'm just glad we found your friend.

Hishi Amazon

Come on, it's almost lights-out. Get to bed already. You've got that race tomorrow.

You missed a whole day of training, but I wouldn't sweat it. It'd take more than a day to throw you out of shape. Just concentrate on restin' up.

Fuji Kiseki

...Will do.

Hishi Amazon

Don't get any funny ideas or anything, 'kay? Good night.

Fuji Kiseki

Yes, good night.

I part ways with the two and return to my room, but I can't help worrying about how Fuji was acting...

Fuji Kiseki

For I am Fuji Kiseki, the entertainer who brings joy to all! At least, that is the ideal I wish to become.

I'll put on a miracle of a performance that will make everyone smile!

For I... am the miracle of the turf, Fuji Kiseki!

Watch me, I'll have you remember your motivation. All of it. In the tryouts tomorrow, I'll show you a real miracle!

She wants so badly to entertain and thrill people. I hope she's staying calm about this...

Your choice

(But I've got a bad feeling.)

Unable to shake my strange hunch, I go to make sure Fuji's resting.

Hishi Amazon

What a jerk! She looked too calm, I knew she'd do somethin' dumb like this!

Oh, it's you. You're that trainer who was with Fuji, aren't ya?

Your choice

Did something happen?

Hishi Amazon

Oh, only her drivin' me into a rage! She vanished without a trace. It's one thing for the others to break curfew, but a dorm leader? Unforgivable!

It's good that you're here, though, we're after the same thing. Let's split up.

Lemme think where she loves to train... There's down by the river, the shrine...

After thinking of all the places she could be, Hishi Amazon and I split up to look for Fuji Kiseki.

Finally...

Fuji Kiseki

Huff, puff, huff...

Your choice

Fuji Kiseki!

Fuji Kiseki

Huh... T-Trainer?!

4. The Show Must Go On

68 lines
Fuji Kiseki

I... Uh...

This is a coincidence. Out for an evening stroll? I, too, am...

Your choice

You don't look like you're just out for a stroll.

Fuji Kiseki

That's, well...

Your choice

Nervous about the tryouts?

Fuji Kiseki

N-no, never! I'm the miracle worker! I would never...

Ah, ahem... Excuse me. I didn't mean to raise my voice.

Sigh... How quick I am to lose my composure upon being exposed. I still have much to learn.

Smiling at her own consternation, Fuji Kiseki takes a deep breath and quietly continues.

Fuji Kiseki

The tryouts are special.

They're a momentous event where runners who've risen to racer status take their first definitive steps toward entering the Twinkle Series.

Make no mistake, it's a far cry from the scrimmage the other day. At tryouts, the expectations are as high as the level of each superb runner.

But me? I'm still not...

Trainer, from what you've seen, what do you think of me? Did I succeed in my performance as a naturally talented and confident Fuji Kiseki?

Your choice

That's exactly what I saw.

Fuji Kiseki

Then I'm glad. I hope to always be capable of that.

But... the truth is, I still lack many skills.

Today's incident is proof. If I'd been keeping a proper eye out, as I should've been, that student never would have run away.

I... I know I should be resting, but when I think about tomorrow... I can't fathom the thought of sleeping as if everything's fine.

Fuji Kiseki's fallen into deep anxiety, making me realize she'll continue to strain herself so long as she can't shake this dread.

I don't know how to make her feel better... What would be the best way to raise the spirits of an aspiring entertainer?

Fuji Kiseki

So long as there are people hoping for a miraculous race, it is this entertainer's mission to give them a show to remember.

Your choice

(She needs an audience!)

Fuji Kiseki

Huh? What is it?

Your choice

I know what to do! Just stay here!

Fuji Kiseki

What? Where, wait, Trainer!

Hishi Amazon

Ah, it's you! That look in your eyes... You found Fuji, didn't ya?!

Your choice

Yeah, but I need your help.

Hishi Amazon

Huh? With what?

Your choice

We're going to make her feel better.

Hishi Amazon

Hmmm... All right, lemme hear the plan.

I explain the situation to Hishi Amazon, who graciously answers my call for assistance. That's when we get to work.

Fuji Kiseki

Ah, Trainer! What could you be, huh?!

What is everyone doing here?!

Hishi Amazon

Nothin' special. This trainer here asked us to come give you a little support for your tryout race.

And these kiddos... Too curious for their own good. I told 'em it's after curfew, but they wouldn't have it.

Biko Pegasus

We heard you were doing supersecret drills! So that's how you're so good! And you're always coming to our rescue too, just like a hero!

That's why tomorrow we're going to be on the sidelines cheering for your victory, just like in those superhero shows!

Mayano Top Gun

And me too! Your races are always the funnest to watch! I can't wait to cheer you on!

Junior Students

Go, Fuji! You can do it! You're the best, Fuji!

Fuji Kiseki

I don't know what to say...

Your choice

We all believe in your miracles.

Fuji Kiseki

My miracles...

Your choice

Now it's time for you to believe in them too.

Fuji Kiseki

...!

Hahaha... You really got me there, Trainer.

I would never dream of letting down all the younger kids. And... I never will.

So I'm going to smile, stand tall, and... go home.

Our efforts pay off, and Fuji Kiseki finally decides to return to her dorm room and get some rest.

No sooner than I can blink, the next morning arrives, meaning it's time for the tryouts at last.

Caster

They're round the third corner! Coming from far outside is... the Black Meteor, Fuji Kiseki! She makes up for her slow start in an instant!

Junior Students

Go for it, Fujiii!

Fuji Kiseki

(Fears still lie within me, I can feel them. I have much to improve on if I ever want to live up to my name... In the end, I'm still an amateur.)

(But! Look at this crowd! I'm in front of a live audience! I will always be proud to be an entertainer, and I will show that to them, right here and now!)

Caster

Fuji Kiseki has the lead into the final stretch! She's a whopping eight lengths ahead of second! What a whirlwind of a solo show!

Fuji Kiseki

(Forget the fatigue! Show them you've got enough left to smile! That's what Fuji Kiseki would do! Now, all that's left is the big finish!)

This... is my MIRACLE!

Caster

And Fuji Kiseki takes fiiirst! The crowd is roaring with applause for that astounding performance!

Junior Runner C

Fuji Kiseki... Thank you so much for that amazing race. I remember now... my motivation, and my dream!

Fuji Kiseki

Phew... I'm completely exhausted. You know, I'm a bit of a stranger when it comes to muscle soreness, but this time I'm afraid of what tomorrow will bring.

Your choice

Good job out there. That was a real miracle.

Fuji Kiseki

Heehee, that makes me happy!

It's the job of an entertainer to live up to the audience's expectations. That's what I thought, at least...

But at the same time, I learned that their expectations are what give me the greatest strength of all. I just wanted to say... thank you for teaching me that.

Trainer, if you're willing... would you continue to teach me?

With you, I feel I can show everyone a miracle even grander than the one I demonstrated today!

Your choice

It would be my pleasure!

I instantly sign a contract with Fuji Kiseki, the miraculous entertainer who brings joy to all!

5. What Dreams Are Made Of

36 lines

After I finish up my duties one day, I come across Fuji Kiseki speaking with one of her young dormmates.

Fuji Kiseki

This is strange. Why did you call me out here to this deserted place?

What's going on, my dear pony?

Junior Student

Well, um, Fuji...

Today I'm ready. I want to tell you how I feel.

Fuji Kiseki

...Very well. I'm ready to listen. My heart is open.

Junior Student

Fuji, you... you mean the world to me!

You've always been there, just a year ahead of me, a goal for me to chase and maybe one day even catch up to... And when I did...

We'd be shoulder to shoulder, running as equals... running together.

Fuji Kiseki

My dear, p...

Junior Student

So... it's just so hard... that I...

Fuji Kiseki

Now, now. Look at me.

I heard from the director about this being your last day at the academy... and about your injury.

Junior Student

Sob...

Fuji Kiseki

Even among the students here, you were gifted with a remarkable talent. I knew you would become a formidable opponent one day.

You were unwavering in your training, practicing harder than all others. That's why it pains me to see you go.

I've always been a fan of yours.

Junior Student

I don't know what to say...

I wanted so badly to keep running... to keep winning, and then one day...

Fuji Kiseki

One day?

Junior Student

I know this is a big ask, but I want you to carry on my dream. My dream as a racer...

Fuji Kiseki

Of course, I'll hold it with me always. It'll be like we're running together, forever and ever.

As the sun sets, a faint crying can be heard, until finally, the young racer leaves with a smile on her face.

Fuji Kiseki

Well, it appears you've stumbled upon my secret. I know you're there, Trainer.

Your choice

You saw me?

Fuji Kiseki

There come times like that when a precious student must leave the academy. It makes me feel so helpless, unable to change anything.

How can I bring joy to someone whose dream was shattered? Even her parting smile was filled with sadness.

She entrusted her dreams as a racer to me...

Just now, I'm reminded that Fuji Kiseki told me she once let go of her dream to be on the big stage, choosing instead to become a racer...

Your choice

Hey, what's your dream? I mean now.

Fuji Kiseki

Mine? My dream is crystal clear, it's to bring joy to all and make miracles happen.

As soon as the words leave her lips, she falls silent. With a curious expression, she looks deep in thought.

Your choice

You okay?

Fuji Kiseki

Oh my, I seem to have lost myself. Fuji Kiseki would put on a big smile precisely at this moment!

I ask that you promise me you'll keep secret what you saw here today. It'll be just between you and me, all right?

Clandestine promise made, Fuji Kiseki gives the biggest smile she can muster.

6. The Brightest Star

56 lines

One afternoon, as I'm heading out of the school building, I come upon a somber-looking Fuji Kiseki gazing out the window.

Fuji Kiseki

Hehe, what sweet kids, practicing so hard.

Your choice

What are you looking at?

Fuji Kiseki

Just the grounds. The little ones are staying after school for extra training.

Each one of them is speeding off with big, bright eyes, their paths aimed straight toward their dreams.

Their dreams as racers...

I want to run to make others happy, but I don't know... Something inside me is saying that alone is not quite enough.

I fear it will take more than that to become Fuji Kiseki, the greatest entertainer.

Your choice

Is there anything I can do to help?

Fuji Kiseki

Good gracious! My feelings just come right out when I'm around you, don't they? Actually, let me take you up on that, there's somewhere I want to go.

Shall we make it a date, Trainer?

I'm happy to accompany Fuji Kiseki for the night. Our destination is...

Fuji Kiseki

This is our destination for tonight. Behold, the Okan Classic Hotel.

Your choice

Wait, this is, like, one of the fanciest hotels in Japan!

Fuji Kiseki

Ahaha! Perfect for a date, wouldn't you say?

...I joke. You see, this hotel holds within it a theater!

And today there's an important play. My dear friend, no, my former rival, is about to make her stage debut.

We've been friends since our children's theater days. It would always be me and her competing for the lead role.

When she chuckled, the audience laughed. When she cried, the audience sobbed. She's truly an outstanding talent.

However, that's not the only thing that made her fearsome...

Your choice

So she scared you, huh?

Fuji Kiseki

She did, very much so. All that remarkable ability, and she was never satisfied.

But I don't believe I've ever lost in my desire to bring happiness to others. Still, there was a decided difference between us.

And on tonight's stage, I mean to ascertain exactly what that was.

And so, the curtains rise.

The young woman's performance is a sight to behold. She shines bright, never ceasing to captivate the audience.

Her every gaze and gesture radiates tremendous passion. She is without a doubt the star of the show.

Fuji Kiseki

"Eclipse, incomparable goddess, I beg you smile upon me. Now, with my dream in pieces, I need the strength to stand again."

"Should my one wish to win this fight be granted, I would pledge my undying soul to you. Place the everlasting crown upon my head!"

Your choice

That was a great play.

Fuji Kiseki

A great play indeed.

Her spellbinding performance left me in awe. Whether whispered or shouted forth, I felt each word plunge right into me.

In the moment, I didn't realize what was making my body tremble so hard.

But now I know. It's passion, a passion for acting, that drives one to become their ideal self.

It's also the enthusiasm to be the best. The unbreakable feeling, bordering on obsession, to follow one's dreams.

That's the kind of star performer who held me transfixed.

Your choice

Have you found what you've been looking for?

Fuji Kiseki

I saw what lies beyond...

The dream that lies beyond making others happy.

That was a tour de force I'll never forget. Congratulations on your debut as a lead performer.

Fuji's Childhood Friend

Fuji! You came to watch me?! This is great, I wanted you, more than anyone, to be here.

Fuji Kiseki

I was so amazed, that I'm still spinning. It pains me to say it, but tonight, you were the greatest entertainer.

That doesn't mean I admit defeat, though. One day I'm going to surpass you and give everyone an enchanting show they'll never forget!

Fuji's Childhood Friend

And I'm going to climb to the top of the theater world. We may be on different stages, but you're my rival, now and forever.

Fuji Kiseki

I'm honored. Then let us both pursue our dreams to their ends.

Fuji shakes hands with her friend, who listens gleefully to those kind words before departing with a wave.

Fuji Kiseki

It's peculiar. My body feels hot, down to the core. I can't help wanting to run right this instant.

You know, Trainer, I'm really glad we got to see this play together.

I was actually scared at first, of having to stare right into the very thing I still lack.

But with you there by my side, I was able to see what's past the point of simply becoming the ideal me.

I don't feel uncertain anymore, thanks to you. I'll never forget this day.

Say, what's wrong? You got so quiet.

Your choice

Nothing, I was just thinking how you look cooler than ever.

Fuji Kiseki

Oh? What's this? Have you perchance become smitten with me? Well, not that I would mind, of course!

...Just joking! Let's get out of here before I get in trouble for breaking curfew!

Looking at the time, I begin to panic, and we start sprinting toward the train station.

7. Watch Me

59 lines

We're a few days into summer camp, and I find that it's totally silent tonight as I go to get some water. The whole camp must be sleeping soundly after training.

But as I walk through the eerily empty lobby in search of a drink, I feel a chill run up my spine...

???

I... cuuurse... youuu...

Your choice

Yikes!

Fuji Kiseki

Hahaha, just the reaction I was hoping for. You scare easily, huh, Trainer?

Oh, don't look at me like that. I was only playing. Forgive me?

I couldn't get to sleep and was bored out of my mind. That is, until you came along!

Your choice

Can't sleep, huh?

Fuji Kiseki

No need to worry, I'm not nervous or anything. But this might be the perfect opportunity.

Come for a walk with me? Let's enjoy the night air.

Ah, what a wonderful evening. I haven't had a night to myself like this since we got here.

Your choice

You didn't check out the festival or fireworks?

Fuji Kiseki

I may be a student, but my duties as a dorm leader are many. Some of my darling ponies need lots of comforting to sleep in unfamiliar beds.

But just for tonight, I'd like to forget my responsibilities and have you all to myself.

Your choice

You're not joking again, are you?

Fuji Kiseki

Ahaha, I'm serious. There's something I want to show you.

Say, let's race to the beach.

Your choice

Wh-what? Hey, wait!

Surprised as I am, I follow after her as fast as I can.

She really deserves her nickname, the Black Meteor. Her running is elegant, yet powerful. There's not an ounce of hesitation in it.

And it's wrapped in a relentless passion to race.

Fuji Kiseki

Pant... Pant...

The sound of the rippling waves is so comforting. This really is a wonderful night.

Your choice

What's going on with you, Fuji?

Fuji Kiseki

What do you think? I wanted you to see the fruits of our training here. I've been having the time of life running these last few days.

So? Did my running excite you?

Your choice

I was totally blown away!

Fuji Kiseki

Hehe...

I need to tell you something. It's important.

I've been thinking ever since that student got injured and had to leave the academy. She entrusted her dream to me, as you may recall.

Thinking of how I can carry on her dream has confounded me.

But when we saw that play together, I realized what I need to do.

Your choice

Lay it on me.

Fuji Kiseki

Fuji Kiseki, the greatest entertainer, who brings joy to the world... That's who I want to become.

But this dream of mine continues beyond that.

Making people happy, healing their woes, that's what I want to do. And I also want to carry on their dreams when they themselves can't.

For that purpose, I cannot lose to anyone!

I'm going to continue to run, always, and win as many races as I can! And when I rise as a star...

I'm going to obtain every racer's dream, proof of being the greatest.

Your choice

The greatest? You don't mean...

Fuji Kiseki

I will win the Triple Crown. That will be the ultimate realization of my dream.

Your choice

The Triple Crown!

The Triple Crown is a title given to runners who triumph in the three most prestigious races, the Satsuki Sho, the Japanese Derby, and the Kikuka Sho.

In the history of the Twinkle Series, only a rare few have ever achieved it. It's truly the greatest honor every racer aspires to!

Fuji Kiseki

That is what I swear to you tonight. I need you to act as my witness.

Your choice

As your trainer, I accept your vow.

Fuji Kiseki

There. Now that it's in words, I must make it come true. To fail to meet your expectations would be my greatest defeat!

So I have to start training seriously, and I need you to keep me on my path!

Afterwards, I watch as she practices for a while, and I see a new light of passion burning in her eyes.

Fuji Kiseki

Phew... I want to keep going, but I'm afraid it'll be light soon.

Nevertheless, a great dream lies before me. I feel I can almost reach out and snatch it from the very air.

All I want to do is keep running.

Your choice

What can I do to help you achieve your dream?

Fuji Kiseki

I'll ask you again, Trainer.

Guide me on my path. Be my number-one supporter, my partner, always stay by my side!

Your choice

Okay. I promise.

Fuji Kiseki

Then on my name as the greatest entertainer, I promise to bring you the most joy of all.

You'll have a front-row seat to my marvelous miracle.

Our partnership feels like it's just beginning. From here on out, we're going after the biggest dream our hearts can imagine.