Mejiro Bright's story

Wow...

Hm...

Hah...

...Oh, how do you do? I have a spot open next to me if you'd like. From here, you can see it very clearly.

Look, do you see that tree over there? Most of its leaves have fallen off, but there is still one leaf hanging on near the top.

It stands alone, gently fluttering with the breeze. There were a few times I thought it was going to fall off, but it's still there all right...

...She's a strong one, isn't she?

Oh, I wasn't expecting a reply. My apologies, I didn't realize you were still here.

And that's why you accompanied me? Hehe.

Bright! I finally found you, wait, who's this?!

Hey... do you know this person? Don't tell me they were trying any funny business...

...!

It's true, they're even wearing their badge. Thank goodness...

A trainer...

...Ah, if it isn't Provisional Trainer! Greetings.

Indeed. I've been searching for you. I believed we would reunite someday.

Isn't the weather just lovely today? We had a long winter this year, but I'm sure spring is right around the corner.

Which reminds me, I saw that the replanting of the school flowerbeds has begun. I look forward to seeing a variety of beautiful blooms.

Provisional Trainer, what kind of flowers do you like? As for me... I rather adore when small flowers are arranged closely together.

I may not know all of their names, but seeing them getting along with each other is just such a heartwarming sight. Hehe...

Teehee... Oh, would you look at that. Even the clouds in the sky are getting along.

Oh, that reminds me. From today onwards, would you be willing to watch over my training sessions?

Thank you very much! ♪ Well then, let us be off.

Okay, before I show you my running, I need to stretch properly first. Waaah!

Wait... isn't that Mejiro Bright?! She's from the Mejiro family, and they say she'll be following in the footsteps of McQueen's generation!

For starters, I'll run 1,800 meters, okay?

Yaaah!

Huh?! Her start is that slow?! And she's not accelerating at all... You're kidding me...

Whew, whooo... Oh? Provisional Trainer? Ah, I must've run too far past the finish line.

...H-how do I put it... Her acceleration in the final stretch wasn't great either. She might be a Mejiro, but I think I'll pass...

What did you think? I'm thinking of entering the tryouts, so if you wouldn't mind, could you watch over my training sessions until then?

Teehee, thank you very much. I've already registered myself for the upcoming race, so let's make it a good one, okay?

Oh, was it next week? First things first, let us have a tea party. You can learn a lot about someone by chatting with them over a nice cup of tea.

First things first, let me introduce you to everyone.

From the left, we have the elegant Dober, followed by the proud McQueen. And last but not least, the kind Ryan, whom I love very dearly.

Hehe, welcome to our tea party. Oh, and Bright? Who's this again?

Oh, this is Provisional Trainer.

...Provisional?

Ah, I see. The tryouts are indeed approaching, and having a professional give you feedback is very important.

So? Spill the beans, how's Bright holding up? You two might've just started training, but still, I gotta know!

Hah, whew... Aaand now! O-oh my. It seems I've crossed the finish line again...

Do you mind if I keep running for a bit? I'm still brimming with energy, so let us move on to the next training item.

Provisional Trainer, would you like some tea? It goes very well with a dash of apple compote. Give it a try.

Pleasant, isn't it? A cup of tea can make you feel all warm and fuzzy. Perfect for a cold winter's day.

To tell you the truth, Dober taught me this. She has it all together, and she's taught me countless things. Isn't she just lovely?

And when I'm out basking in the sun, McQueen often comes to drape a blanket over me. I'm blessed by her kindness.

And I haven't even begun to speak of her beautiful running! She's elegant and gorgeous, my ideal. Every time she runs, I'm mesmerized.

Right?! It doesn't get better than McQueen's running.

Teehee. I love your running too, Ryan.

Each of your steps is filled with power, as if you're bounding off the earth with each stride. It reflects your strength of will, and I admire that very much.

Whoa, now you're just laying it on thick!

It's all true, you know? I sincerely respect and admire all of you here.

Indeed, we're surrounded by brilliant talents. I'm sure that if Bright hosted the upcoming event, it would turn out to be a great success.

A meet and greet is being held soon where Mejiro racers who've made their debuts interact with their fans.

Dober and I have yet to debut, so we shall only be watching. Ah, but if you would like, please do join us, Provisional Trainer.

Bright's train, I mean Provisional Trainer! Just wanted to say thanks for today. It was fun having you around!

Hey, don't sweat it. Didn't Bright drag you there anyways? I'm sure she had her own reasons.

You know how she's always so chill and laid-back? Actually, she's a real tough cookie.

Haha, yup! I'm not the kind of gal someone should be lookin' up to. But when Bright tells me how much I mean to her, even I... can believe in myself a little bit.

So if Bright's picked you out as her trainer, then I bet she's got a good reason. Make sure you take good care of her, all right?

Well, if I had to say, it's because you watched that leaf together with me.

Yes. As you can probably tell, I'm a bit of an airhead. Compared to my peers, it takes me longer to gather my thoughts, and even longer to improve myself.

I've always been like this, even when I was a child. I've failed to live up to the expectations of so many people.

As an Umamusume of the Mejiro family, there is no greater shame.

Be that as it may, I still believe in my own abilities. Though I may walk in the shadow of my peers, I am still a Mejiro through and through.

I wanted to enter the tryouts so I could finally show the world my true potential. Yet as I was, I could not hope to accomplish that goal.

That is when I met you. When I was spacing out towards the sky, you adapted yourself to my pace and accompanied me.

You understood me for who I was, and who I could yet become. Just as Ryan once showed me glimmers of hope, you ignited a new spark within me.

I've decided, I will become the light of the Mejiro family!

Pant, pant... Once I hear the signal, I'll pick up the pace... I just need to be ready...

Pant... Right! Here... I go!

Hah, hah... Provisional Trainer, did I accelerate at the right time?

I'm so glad. Having a signal to watch out for is very helpful. I can run more freely when I have something like that.

...Ugh.

My, are you two alone together? Just like peas in a pod.

No, we're not! And Bright, you're late... Wait, isn't that doll... Maki? Why did you bring her here?

Yes, I brought Maki with me. I thought this a good opportunity to let her witness Ryan's majestic aura.

Sigh... Fine. Dressing her up must've delayed you, right? Everyone else has already gone ahead to the venue, so let's catch the next train.

Okay... Achoo. Mm... It feels as if it could snow at any moment.

Huh?! McQueen and Ryan haven't arrived yet?

Unfortunately, traffic jams caused by the sudden snowfall have rendered their vehicle inoperable. Running would be dangerous, so they're currently looking to catch the next train over.

But they won't make it in time, will they? There's only five minutes until the event is supposed to start, and the venue is already filled with fans...

We'll explain the situation to the fans and have them wait a little longer. I'm sure they will understand, though they may become a little restless.

I understand the situation. In that case... how about we talk to the fans instead? ♪

...Hm? Wait, what?! You want the two of us to stall until they arrive?

Yes. Though we lack experience, we still bear the Mejiro name. Rather than making the fans wait, we can entertain them and make this event a success.

Well, I can see where you're coming from... but I don't know. I mean...

I wonder what they'll talk about today. It's not every day that you see so many Mejiros in one place!

Right? In just a few more minutes, we'll get to see their majestic and beautiful faces in the flesh... Oh wow, I'll make sure to burn this sight into my eyes forever!

...I can't do it! Talking in front of that many people... it's too much for me!

...Dober, I know I'm asking a lot from you. However, I am certain that by myself, I won't be able to talk to the fans very well.

That is why I need your assistance. We'll just be talking, like we are now... okay?

Talking isn't the problem... We have to do it in front of all these fans, right? ...Sorry. I don't have the confidence...

It'll be fine, don't worry. I shall be with you every step of the way. You can trust me...

If it were McQueen, Ryan, or any other Mejiro, I'm sure they would boldly step forward and resolve the situation. This time, it's our turn...

I've decided, I will become the light of the Mejiro family!

With that said, I do not wish to force your hand. It's okay. I shall take the stage alone...

Greetings, it's nice to meet everyone! ♪ My name is Mejiro Bright. And joining me today is...

...Maki?

"...Hello, I'm Maki. Nice to meet you..."

Hm? Those two haven't made their debuts yet, have they? Is this supposed to be the opening act?

Also... she called her Maki, but isn't that Dober? Are they doing a puppet show? You don't see that too often.

You want me to talk as the doll?! Are you sure you're not just trying to make things harder for me?!

B-but... I just don't think I can do it. I can't stop thinking about how I might tarnish the Mejiro name...

Provisional Trainer...

...It's as Provisional Trainer says. I'll cover you, so don't worry. I'll make sure you don't burst into tears on stage.

Who said I'd burst into tears?! ...Fine, I get it. I want to help out too... so I'll give it my best shot!

And that's when Ryan took me by the hand to run together with her. She was so cool in that moment.

Mm... Ryan's cool, all right. She's always been looking out for us. And she doesn't let it go to her head.

Indeed. Every Mejiro has been spectacular even from a young age. We're aiming to become like that too someday. Right, Berry?

Yeah, "I mean, what're you saying?! I'm Maki! How many times do I gotta tell you?!"

Hehe, they're so adorable. ♪ I get it, this is a bit they're doing.

Both Dober and Bright have done well. We are in their debt. However... why the doll?

Sorry to keep you waiting! We'll take it from here!

Ah, what a lovely event that was. And my sisters were as elegant as ever. I wish to stand side by side with them on that stage as soon as possible.

Today's meet and greet was great and all, but to be honest, I'm not sure about Bright and Dober. I haven't heard much about them.

This is just what I've heard, but apparently their running could use some work. The Mejiro family's hyping them up as future stars, but I dunno...

...I have no choice but to achieve an exemplary result at the tryouts. I must show everyone a run that will live up to their expectations.

This is my duty as an Umamusume of the Mejiro family...

Oh... This is where we first met. Hehe, that's right. We watched that tree together, side by side.

...Hm? That leaf... I see it finally fell to the ground. What a shame. It held on for so long, too...

...My! I spot a bud... It's a little one, but it's definitely there!

So that's how it is. Soon... spring will come.

My spring... Is it truly... just around the corner?

...Can I become just like my sisters? Can I finally join their ranks as a proud Mejiro?

...!

Bright? Unfortunately, she has a rather delicate build... It's a shame, but racing will likely prove difficult for her.

Ryan has a gift for running! She'll make waves in the scene for sure. Hm? As for Bright... you watch from the sides for now.

Bright, what were you, oh, were you watching us run again? You should just run with us next time!

...Ryan. Can I... Can I become like you and the others someday?

You betcha! I dunno what you mean by "like us," but you can be whatever you wanna be!

So come on, let's run together!

...I finally understand. Back then, when I was staring at that leaf... I must've been waiting for you.

I shall present you with a victory at tomorrow's tryouts. And then, I'll make my debut!

Huh... It looks like today's race is full of slow starters. I'm guessing they'll save their gas for the final stretch, which means we're in for a long one.

The Mejiro Bright is here, too. And she's acting as carefree as ever... I wonder how she'll do. It'll all come down to the timing of her final approach.

Provisional Trainer, I've finished my warm-up. Do you have any words for me today?

All I need to do is wait for my opportunity and seize it. Just like we practiced. ...Still, can I really win this race?

Teehee, thank you. I promise to live up to your expectations of me... and achieve victory!

And our racers are out of the gates! 1,800 meters of turf, six racers, all proceeding along at a slow and steady pace!

...H-hey, this is more than just slow and steady... Someone, anyone... hurry up and take the lead!

Haha... this is kinda funny. Aren't they going way too slow?

Ugh... I can't take this! I'm a little early, but here I go!

(...There's nothing to fear. I only need to keep my pace and wait for an opportunity. And once it's my turn to blossom...)

(...I can hear your voice, just like when we practiced. My time to blossom... has come!)

Our racers have reached the final stretch! They're all speeding up, What's this?! From the very back of the pack, Mejiro Bright flies forward!

Everyone, bear witness! I shall show you the might of the Mejiro family, of its newest light!

I-it took her two minutes?! To run 1,800 meters?! That's way too slow, at least ten seconds behind the average!

Haha... Well, this is worse than I expected. Who's going to want to train someone who took two whole minutes to run 1,800 meters?

...Don't worry, I saw it. I saw your strength... and your determination. I need to make sure I don't fall behind!

I've returned, Provisional Trainer... Look, I won the race as I promised!

Well then, Trainer. I look forward to working with you from today onwards.

I'm aiming for faraway heights, the summit of the racing world. However, those peaks are too bright for me to face alone.

That is why... I would like you to guide me there. Please, will you join me in welcoming the spring?

Gasp! I'm so happy. Yaaay.

Hooray. Woo... I've finally... debuted. ♪

...How long are you planning to stand there? If you're going to be Bright's trainer, then you have to learn when to cut her off, or you won't make any progress.

Okaaay! ♪

Trainer, is now a good moment?

Indeed. In fact, I'm currently waiting for an escort from the family manor to come pick me up.

In the meantime, would it be okay if I waited here in your office?

Thank you very much. Well then, don't mind me.

We've completely entered summer, haven't we? Our next day off is sure to be perfect amusement park weather.

Yes. The other day, Father sent me tickets...

They are, aren't they? Still, I consider myself rather skilled at whiling away the hours, so I think I'll wait for a little while longer.

Oh, but you get off work early today, don't you? Will you be leaving this office?

I appreciate it. Teehee, this reminds me of back then.

Last winter, we also whiled away the time together like this, just the two of us.

...Trainer, when you're by my side, I feel as if...

I become even more carefree than I usually am.

...Hm? Oh, my... Has the sun already begun to set?

Hmm, it is rather rare for a Mejiro driver to be even more laid-back than myself.

I shall call them to check, Oh? The screen has gone all dark.

"Excuse me, Miss Bright. Due to unexpected circumstances, today's plans have been postponed to a later date."

"My sincerest apologies, but you will no longer be required to leave the academy grounds..."

...My, this message is from three hours ago. Which means...

Trainer, I may have made you wait with me this whole time in vain.

If you're okay with it, then all is well. Still, I may have let myself be a little too relaxed in your office today.

That isn't to say conversing with you today wasn't enjoyable...

Teehee, is that so? Then we'll leave it at that.

...But are things really okay as they are?

Oh? If it isn't Trainer. Good day, what a lovely coincidence this is.

I am. Ah, which reminds me. Trainer, if you happen to have time...

Would you like to accompany me to the amusement park?

You see, Father went out of his way to send me a pair of tickets, but I nearly forgot about their expiration date.

Teehee. I'm loath to admit it, but if you hadn't bumped into me, one of the tickets would have gone to waste.

Yes, Father operates an amusement park. Which means, I too am quite acquainted with these kinds of places.

That is why... Oh my, isn't this a perfect opportunity?

Teehee. Today, I'll be your guide for the day! ♪

My, the wait for this ride... is expected to be one hour. Um, perhaps that's a little too long?

Trainer, let us look for a different ride to enjoy.

My, this one has a 120-minute wait time... 120 minutes, which means we'll have to wait two hours.

Unfortunately, we will have to forego this one as well. A two-hour wait is double that of the previous ride's, after all.

Oh, this ride will take three hours... When you think about it, waiting times at amusement parks are rather long, aren't they?

Efficiently enjoying an amusement park... It's harder than you'd think, isn't it? Um, next up is...

...Oh!

Trainer, Trainer! Look over there. That ride says it has a fifteen-minute waiting time!

Here it comes... It's the big drop...

Whee, we're falling...

Trainer, are you feeling okay? My, your eyes are spinning round and round.

Um, I had hoped that taking an efficient route would give you the most enjoyable experience.

But it looks to me like you're even more fatigued than usual. Is something the matter?

Oh, is that so?

That ride... Ah, you mean the Ferris wheel. But what about the hour-and-a-half waiting time?

If we wait there, we'll likely not have any time left afterwards. Are you okay with that?

My, the sun has already set. Ah, but look down there. The park's lights are all on now.

It's so... beautiful. From up on this Ferris wheel, I can see everyone in the park.

Teehee... There's some guests riding that roller coaster from earlier. And over there, I see a parade about to begin.

Everyone looks like they're having so much fun. I see the happy faces of satisfied guests everywhere I look.

And yes, of course, I, too, am content.

Trainer, thank you very much for today.

You know... being a guide is harder than it looks. Even riding the Ferris wheel was one of your ideas, not mine.

But... thanks to you, I'm so happy! I couldn't imagine a better evening.

...Teehee. Even if we run into a roadblock, with the two of us together, I feel as if we can overcome any hurdle.

Well then, let us head home. It's past my curfew, but we'll be fine if it's the two of us.

Yes, as long as we apologize together.

The weather is so nice... Perfect for an afternoon nap on the beach. But before that, I have one more lap to run, right?

Well then, I shall leave the timing to you.

Yaaaah!

...ner? ...Trainer?

Trainer!

I've been back for a while. Is something the matter? You seem like you're drifting away.

...That reminds me. Trainer, you stayed up late last night preparing energy drinks for our training, right?

...Riiight?

Then that settles it. Trainer, won't you accompany me to tonight's festival?

One of the employees at the summer dormitory spoke of it. They said there would be a festival close by this evening.

It seems many other Umamusume are headed there. So I was thinking we could take it easy today...

My, you're organizing those documents even faster than before.

Oh, what a swift departure. Breaks are fine with me, but I do hope Trainer is resting properly as well.

...Right. I must do my part as well.

Oh, welcome back. Come along, I've saved a seat for you right next to me.

Now, now... You just made it back, did you not? I've plenty of things I'd like to talk about with you today.

During our break, I went looking for seashells on the shore with Dober. And guess what? There was a purple sea slug...

Out in the ocean, I saw jellyfish floating dreamily about. I only watched from the shore, but the sight was truly enchanting.

I even saw a big cloud, bigger than a mountain. It looked so soft and fluffy, like freshly whipped ice cream slowly melting away...

Teehee, are you feeling sleepy? Go ahead, gently slip away into the land of dreams.

Hmmm, hm-hm-hm, hm-hm-hmmm... ♪

Hm-hm-hmmm... Hm-hm-hm, hm-hm-hmmm... ♪

My, you've woken up already? You can rest for longer, if you'd like.

Those documents... They're meant for the staff here, right? I took the time to ask if you could submit them tomorrow, and they said it was okay.

As for the festival, we've no hurry to go, have we? After all, we still have next year.

...Perhaps, I went too far? I only ended up derailing your original plans.

I've done nothing that deserves your gratitude. I only acted as I normally would, taking things nice and slowly.

Our usual pace... Yours, and mine, you mean?

...I see. Mhm. In the end... staying true to my laid-back self is how I should be.

My, look over there, Trainer. That carrot stir-fry stall is still open.

Many of the stalls have already closed up, but you know what they say, "Leftovers are a sign of good things to come."

Ah, young miss! Wanna try your luck in the raffle? There's only one try left, and I'm lookin' to sell out, y'see.

My, and speaking of good leftovers... Teehee, I think I'll give this a try.

Congratulations, you're a winner! Here's your prize, a pretty brooch for the pretty lady!

Wow! Teehee, thank you very much. I'm quite fond of this floral design.

...You know, Trainer? You were right...

Every flower has its spring.