Uma Musume: Pretty Derby story · Character stories
Mihono Bourbon's story
7 scenes, 462 lines
1. Cyborg's Secret
63 linesIt's been a few days since I started my life as a trainer at Tracen Academy.
Error. Specified coordinates do not correspond with target location.
While walking around the shopping district, I notice an Umamusume standing in the middle of the path.
GPS is currently unresponsive. Detecting a shift in emotional state, "despair" has been identified.
...Hey, what's wrong?
...Tracen Academy trainer badge confirmed. Hello. My name is Mihono Bourbon.
I am currently experiencing "despair" because I am unable to locate the new training equipment store.
Upon inquiry, a passerby instructed me to walk straight for approximately one-hundred meters. However, the provided data appears incorrect.
In addition, my mobile device is malfunctioning. I am unable to access the GPS.
Sensing her obvious confusion, I pull out my phone and begin to search on the internet.
Let me give you a hand.
Thank you.
I quickly find the store, just a mere 42 meters away. Squinting ahead, I can make out the sign from here.
Just walk a bit more that way and you'll see it.
...Pardon. Please define "a bit more."
What?
If possible, please quantify "a bit more" in numerical terms.
Umm, around 40 meters I guess?
..."Around?"
...Exactly 42 meters.
Thank you for confirming that the store is 42 meters ahead. It seems that my original informant had miscalculated the distance.
Regardless, this could have been avoided had I done sufficient research. I will log this event in my database to prevent future occurrences.
Once again, thank you for your assistance.
Destination, 42 meters ahead. Commencing navigation.
(She's a strange one, that's for sure...)
I keep watch as she heads down the street, then disappears into the correct shop.
The day after that odd encounter, I stop by a mock race, hoping to scout a few students.
Hey, isn't Mihono Bourbon here today? I heard she did well in her races before admission to Tracen.
Oh, that cyborg of a student? I think I saw her around, though I wouldn't get my hopes up if I were you.
The voices of excited trainers drown each other out as everyone gathers information. An electric buzz fills the air as the clock counts down.
<I>Bang!</I>
The sound of the opening gates echoes through the stadium as participants charge down the track.
Do you see the one in front? Look at her go!
Leading the pack is Mihono Bourbon, determined to put distance between her and the rest.
<I>Pant, pant!</I>
The rumors were right, her speed is really something else. This newcomer's gonna change the game for sprinters!
Mihono Bourbon charges ahead of her opponents with overwhelming force. Her lone figure quickly approaches the goal.
<I>Huff, huff!</I>
Without losing her lead even once, she calmly crosses the finish line in a convincing show of power.
(What a crazy amount of talent!)
A sense of complete awe washes over me, it's almost hard to believe the lost Umamusume I met days ago is the same person!
That potential... I gotta scout her before the others do!
(He's right! I need to hurry!)
You're too late. She's already got a trainer.
What?!
And sure enough, I find Mihono Bourbon talking to someone.
(Darn it!)
Looks like she's with a veteran too. Agh, better luck next time I guess.
I'm surprised you didn't know. That trainer's been gushing about how he'll make Bourbon the perfect sprinter.
Reluctantly accepting defeat, I decide to quietly support Mihono Bourbon from the sidelines.
With the sun long past set, I start making my way back home, only to notice someone on the track.
<I>Pant, pant.</I>
(Mihono Bourbon?)
It looks like she's doing some evening training by herself.
Hah... 1,800 meters completed. 1,200 meters remaining. Time, 2:04. Speed insufficient to meet target!
Curious, I listen to Mihono Bourbon calculating her time and distance, until something hits me.
(Wait... 3,000 meters?!)
My mind reels at the number. It's practically unheard of for pre-debut racers to attempt such long distances. The risk of injury is too great!
...!
Panicking, I rush to Mihono Bourbon's side to check on her.
2. First Step
72 linesHydration levels, heart rate, and blood pressure have all stabilized. Maintenance complete.
Thank you for your assistance. I will take my leave now.
Hey, are you sure you're okay?
Affirmative. My database shows that losing consciousness is expected after high levels of exertion. I am currently taking appropriate countermeasures.
By current projections, I will have sufficient energy to resume activity in 7 minutes and 28 seconds. I will continue regulating my breath until then.
I get the uneasy sense "resume activity" means she's planning to resume <I>training.</I>
Once you feel better, you're going back home... right?
Negative. There are 2,000 meters remaining that I must run.
Absolutely not!
Why?
I explain to her the importance of gradually building endurance. Taking on long-distance training too early can cause injuries.
Acknowledged. However, I have a goal I must achieve.
What goal?
The Classic Triple Crown.
The Classic Triple Crown, a series of medium- and long-distance G1 races consisting of the Satsuki Sho, Japanese Derby, and Kikuka Sho.
(Hm... Hang on...)
I'm surprised you didn't know. That trainer's been gushing about how he'll make Bourbon the perfect sprinter.
If Mihono Bourbon's trainer is prepping her for short distances, why is she here alone practicing for the Classic Triple Crown?
Does your trainer know what you're doing?
Well...
According to the Twinkle Series database, you have attained wins in 26 graded races. Your skill in handling medium- and long-distance races is evident.
I would like your assistance in helping me train for the Classic Triple Crown.
I hate to break it to you but... you're just not cut out for long distances. You already know that, right?
Correct. My base specifications are compatible with sprints. However, I believe that I can increase my stamina.
There's a big chance you'd wind up getting hurt.
Your concern is unnecessary. My father was a trainer, so I have run exhaustive routines since youth. In other words, I am used to it.
<I>Sigh...</I>
Don't get distracted by unrealistic goals. If you stick to what you're good at, you'll get a lot farther.
In conclusion, he rejected my proposal.
I issued two other messages in an attempt to reach an agreement. Unfortunately, I was met with silence.
(...I get where he's coming from though.)
I saw for myself how good a sprinter Mihono Bourbon is. It feels like a waste of talent...
However, my objective remains the Classic Triple Crown.
I compiled a training regimen to customize my specifications for endurance.
I intend to win a race of at least medium distance, and present empirical data to my trainer in further negotiations.
The ambitious trainee's commitment to her cause is clear, but I can't shake off the feeling that she'll run herself into danger.
Before we do anything rash, let's talk to your train...
7 minutes and 30 seconds have elapsed. My body is now stable.
I will resume training. Goodbye.
W-wait!
Without wasting a moment, the student speeds off again into the night.
<I>Pant, pant!</I>
(1,200 meters completed. Estimated time of arrival at goal exceeds target. Accelerating tempo.)
Agh!
Even from afar, I can see Mihono Bourbon struggling to run.
(I can't just stand here and do nothing!)
I know I shouldn't contradict her trainer's guidance, but... I rush over to help Bourbon.
Ahh... hah...
...Pay attention to your lap time.
Lap time?
I carefully explain the importance of pacing. Managing one's stamina is crucial, especially during extended races.
Reminding Mihono Bourbon of her analytical prowess, I suggest that she uses it to recalculate her time and distance while running.
If you do that, I'm sure you'll improve.
...Understood. Updating my database accordingly. After I recover, I will begin my measurements.
Sounds good. Why don't we start with 1,600 meters for now?
But...
There's no need to rush.
...Affirmative. Adjusting speed parameters to match a "relaxed" tempo. Commencing new training program.
<I>Pant, pant.</I>
(400 meters completed according to schedule. Increasing distance to 600 meters. Prioritizing lap time.)
<I>Pant, pant.</I>
(Air intake regulation... confirmed.)
And with those changes, Mihono Bourbon safely completes 1,600 meters.
...Adding personal best to my database.
That was awesome! Congrats!
Without thinking, I start clapping my hands to celebrate Mihono Bourbon's new record. She stares at me in response, her face completely expressionless.
...What's wrong?
...Emotional status displays characteristics of "happiness."
Your advice has been invaluable. I am certain this brings me one step closer to the Triple Crown.
Despite her seemingly stoic look, I can't help but notice a tiny smile forming around the corners of her lips.
From that moment on, nightly trips to the racecourse become routine as I keep a close eye on Mihono Bourbon to ensure her safety.
3. Non-negotiable Terms
78 linesSeveral weeks have passed since I began watching over Mihono Bourbon's secret training.
Pant, pant.
Hang in there! Just a bit more to go!
You did a great job!
Thank you for your support. Upon full recovery of stamina, I will transition to the interval training workout. Now moving to the ramped track.
Let's add an extra lap starting today.
Understood. Adjusting plan to include modifications.
...Stamina recharged. Commencing ramped dash.
Mihono Bourbon races off without another word. Despite the strenuous training, she never reveals any hint of weakness.
(From a trainer's perspective, there's no doubt that she's more naturally suited to sprint distances. And yet...)
Witnessing the strength and tenacity in her run, a sense of pride wells up inside of me.
(Chase your dreams, Mihono Bourbon!)
Pant, pant!
It's only a matter of time before she's ready for medium and long distances... Only one obstacle remains.
So you're the one who's been giving her endurance lessons behind my back.
One day, the changes in Mihono Bourbon's condition catch her trainer's eye. After putting two and two together, he calls me out.
This person is not involved with my evening runs. I have been doing everything by my own will.
Bourbon, you really think I'm going to believe that when you two have been meeting every night? I bet this trainer took pity on you.
What? It's not like that...
Listen, I've heard all about her lofty goals. But you and me both, we know the risks involved. Do you really think I'm going to let her run those races?
If I may object, my entire purpose for enrolling here is the Triple Crown. I will not accept anything less.
Exasperated by her stubbornness, the trainer lets out a long sigh.
...Fine. Then show me if you've got what it takes. The Kikuka Sho is 3,000 meters. Let's see you run that distance right now.
(She can't handle that kind of distance yet!)
Understood.
?!
I will prove my abilities to you.
We move to the course for Mihono Bourbon's 3,000-meter attempt. However, at her current level, I'm not sure she can finish, let alone finish fast.
(I hope she'll be okay...)
Huff, huff!
(1,600 meters completed on time. 1,400 meters remain. Irregular air intake detected. Unable to maintain a steady pace...)
...Agh!
My gut was right. Around the 2,000 meter mark, Mihono Bourbon's speed starts decreasing. It's all but a crawl by the time she reaches the finish line.
Pant... pant...
Just give up already. Stop doing this to yourself. You're not built for long distances.
(It's true that long-distance races aren't her forte. But still...)
After spending several weeks with Mihono Bourbon, anyone can see how determined she is to participate in the Classic Triple Crown series.
I think we should respect her wishes.
Can't you see that all she's doing is hurting herself? Why is it so hard for you to understand?
But...
Ugh never mind, there's no point in talking to you. Bourbon, tell us how you feel. I'm sure you understood the reality of the situation when you were running.
How I "feel"...
A hesitant Mihono Bourbon opens her mouth to speak.
...The Triple Crown is non-negotiable. This is one objective I must see to the end.
Please understand that I cannot give up now.
...
...If that's what you want, then so be it. I can't stand by your decision in good faith. Our training contract ends today.
... ...I understand.
...I had high expectations of you, Bourbon. You've disappointed me.
Shaking his head, the trainer turns on his heels and leaves.
...Hey, are you okay?
I am currently experiencing "confusion" due to the loss of my trainer.
It is true that despite my supplementary training, I was unable to run 3,000 meters.
I've based all my projections upon the Triple Crown. Have I been miscalculating my whole racing career?
I have faith in you. You have what it takes to succeed.
Her perseverance to put herself through such demanding training without a single complaint is no small feat.
Rather, it's a testament to Mihono Bourbon's willpower and her desire to achieve the Classic Triple Crown.
No matter what other people say, I'm on your side!
...!
We'll get to the finish line together.
Mihono Bourbon's eyes widen.
Together...
I don't want you to give up.
(These words... sound familiar...)
Haaah... nngh... Father... I failed... again...
You may not have a lot of stamina. But what you've got is the heart to keep going. As long as you don't stop, everything's gonna be all right.
We'll get to the finish line together.
...Mihono Bourbon?
Unable to bear the awkward silence any longer, I grab her attention. She studies my face for a moment before speaking.
Your customized training plan allowed me to achieve the first 1,600 meters today, which is more than I could manage before.
I feel that I will go far with you as my trainer.
From now on, I am in your care.
And then, the so-called "cyborg" of Tracen Academy grips my hand firmly, but warmly.
4. Sparta's Wind
73 linesIn my formative years, I lacked the "will" that my peers exhibited. I simply took instructions and carried them out.
Everything changed when I encountered the G1 races. For the first time in my existence, I felt what it was like to "yearn" for something.
Father... I... I want to be a Triple Crown champion.
...You, I... I see. Their running style caught your eye, huh?
My father is a stoic man, but on that day I vividly remember observing a smile.
Let's do it, Bourbon. For the Triple Crown!
That goal was one of the few choices I've ever made that truly reflected my "will." My dad and I treasured it.
...This concludes the memory log. I trust that sharing this information with you will aid in your comprehension of me.
It's been a few days since I've become Mihono Bourbon's trainer. During our downtime, she shares bits and pieces of her past with me.
I see...
Her story continues to inspire me, a cyborg-like girl with hopes and dreams hidden under her mechanical facade.
Together, let's make your dreams come true.
Certainly.
The corners of the trainee's lips move upwards into a small smile.
Slowly but surely, we continue to make progress. But as word of our training gets out, people begin to approach me with remarks of disappointment.
What?! Mihono Bourbon's training for long distances? That's such a waste though! She should just stick with sprinting!
Letting the comments fall on deaf ears, we march on and continue training for the Triple Crown. The skepticism only strengthens our resolve to prove everyone wrong.
Mihono Bourbon is going to show the world what she's made of.
Your recommendation is... the Tracen Meet's 2,000-meter turf race? The distance is comparable to the longest junior G1 race, the Hopeful Stakes.
The Tracen Meet, a highly anticipated school event with numerous races. The fierce competition attracts countless spectators.
That's right! We're taking first place!
Understood. Processing new directive.
And with that, our preparations for the meet begin.
Pant, pant!
(1,600 meters completed. 400 meters remaining. Heart rate and oxygen intake are within optimal parameters.)
Come on, let's beat your best time! You got this!
...Roger that!
Gritting her teeth, Mihono Bourbon bolts across the track like the wind.
The day of the Tracen Meet arrives. Throngs of people gather, eager to catch a glimpse of one student, Mihono Bourbon.
Ever since the news of her switch to long races broke out, the racer has become a hot topic.
I can't imagine her running 2,000 meters, she doesn't have the stamina for it!
This race will be tough to watch. Honestly, what on earth is her trainer thinking?
(I believe in her!)
Praying for Mihono Bourbon's success, I fix my eyes on the starting gates.
Bang!
Aaaand we're off! Who will take first place in today's 2,000-meter turf race?
(Acquired favorable position. Preparing to accelerate. All systems functioning at maximum efficiency.)
...How the heck is Mihono Bourbon keeping up with everyone?!
(All right! Let's go!)
Pant, pant...
Mihono Bourbon takes the lead! Rounding the 4th corner, she's on fire, but wait! The other runners are closing in fast on her as we approach the last stretch!
This is it!
...!
Mihono Bourbon has lost her lead! With just one-hundred meters remaining, will she catch up in time?!
(One racer ahead, two close behind. Stamina reserves are rapidly depleting. Detecting lung distress. Concentration faltering. But I...)
...Must win!
Four Umamusume are fighting tooth and nail for the lead as they approach the end! Who will take first?!
Pant, pant...
The crowd is on the edge of their seats as the racers charge across the finish line. Everyone holds their breath, waiting for the caster to announce the results.
The winner is, MIHONO BOURBON! MIHONO BOURBON!
Amazed, the once-skeptical trainers now look at her with wonder and incredulity.
Who knew she could run 2,000 meters like that? I'm taking my words back about Bourbon!
Looks like we've got a new contender for medium events now!
Today, Mihono Bourbon has made a name for herself as a formidable Triple Crown challenger.
Placing first in a 2,000-meter race with such little stamina... Well, I'll be damned.
You really are one heck of a runner, Mihono Bourbon.
Mission accomplished. As per our agreement, I have emerged victorious in the 2,000-meter turf race.
You were amazing out there!
Mihono Bourbon joins me in the stands, exuding her usual calm-and-collected demeanor despite the taxing race.
(But I know...)
That today's results were the culmination of grit and perseverance.
In the end, hard work surpasses talent, there's no doubt about it. I open my mouth to remind her, only to find myself choking back a sob.
Ngh...
I've detected a shift in your emotional state as characterized by erratic breathing and facial muscle contortions. However, the cause is unknown.
The way you run inspires courage in others... I'm so proud of you.
I tell her that I want her to continue to prove that hard work surpasses talent. Her usually robotic eyes widen slightly in response.
I ran only to achieve my goal. Evoking an "emotional" response is not currently logged as one of my objectives.
However... given the source of the comment, I will take it into consideration.
...Oh, Bourbon!
I have updated my objectives. They now include the Twinkle Series, the Classic Triple Crown, and showing the value of hard work.
My calculations show that there will be challenges ahead of us, but none too hard to overcome with your presence.
Once again, I look forward to continue working with you, Fathe, Trainer.
For a moment, the racer's stoic expression crumbles as her cheeks redden. Although it's just a verbal slip, I can't help but feel that we're getting closer.
5. Parental Orders
43 linesCurrent time, five p.m. Quota has been successfully met. Now engaging in a brief moment of respite before initiating the next phase of training.
U-um, excuse me, are you Mihono Bourbon?
An Umamusume jogs over to where Bourbon is resting.
Hey, I hope I'm not interrupting anything! I just think it's really awesome how hard you're working every day!
No need to be concerned. It appears that you wish to have a discussion. How can I help you?
Uh, well... I heard you used to only run sprints, right? It's so cool that you're able to run medium-distance now!
Mihono Bourbon stares curiously at the excited student.
If I may ask, what is the purpose of this conversation?
Huh?
You engaged me in conversation during my break. Statistically, this action suggests an underlying motive.
Common motivations include queries, transmission of information, and fact-checking. Which of the above best suits your purpose?
P-purpose?
As the Umamusume struggles to find an answer, her face begins to turn pink.
I just wanted to talk to you... I'm sorry for taking up your time! I'll get going now!
Wait, there's been a misunderstanding...
Perplexed, Mihono Bourbon watches the embarrassed trainee speed away.
...Hey, what's wrong?
My conversation ended unexpectedly due to insufficiently defined "motive" parameter. Analyzing crash log for source of error.
Wait, what's a motive parameter?
I have been updating my database with facial expressions and vocal inflection samples, but I am experiencing difficulty implementing them in conversations.
Feeling bemused, I take a moment to think. Is this her unique way of trying to get better at talking to people?
Can I ask you why you're doing this?
Certainly. I was prompted by my parents to improve my "sociability" functions.
The majority of my formative years were spent training from sunrise to sunset with my father. Consequently, I seldom had opportunities to interact with my peers.
Once my acceptance to Tracen Academy was confirmed, my parents began to demonstrate great concern over my limited interpersonal experiences.
On multiple occasions, they told me to, and I quote, "prioritize engaging with my friends and classmates."
It is true that communicative abilities are essential for interviews and fan engagement. As an Umamusume, enhancing my "sociability" is simply unavoidable.
(...Hmm?)
I defined a set of parameters related to "sociability," and have endeavored to refine them by engaging in conversation.
However, the statistics have shown limited improvement relative to that of my physical parameters.
A study showed that questions are effective starters, but they only caused my conversational partner to flee. At this rate, failure is certain.
(Oh boy, where do I start...)
I can tell her intentions are good, but her methods leave much to be desired.
Are her parents this robotic too? I get the feeling Bourbon is interpreting their instructions in an over-rational way.
I think what your parents wanted to say was...
I explain that her parents probably just want her to enjoy spending time with friends. In response, her expression becomes more puzzled.
My apologies, but I am having trouble comprehending. I have no data pertaining to "spending time with friends."
Ummm...
Reframing my explanation, I begin talking about the benefits of having friends, but am cut short.
My resting period concluded twenty seconds ago. I must now return to my training.
Without a second to spare, she takes off down the track.
Mihono Bourbon's racing abilities are no doubt impressive, but her lack of connection with the world beyond the race track concerns me.
As I watch her figure dart across the field, I pray that one day she'll understand the meaning behind her parents' words.
6. Status: Attack
64 linesIt's finally the weekend. I head to the mall to get some shopping done and spot the one and only Mihono Bourbon.
She's standing outside of an arcade, eyes fixed on the neon contraptions inside.
...Bourbon? What's wrong?
I have observed that this arcade is frequented by Umamusume with a high "sociability" parameter. However, I am unsure whether to enter.
After pressing for more details, she tells me that the arcade is popular among her classmates, so she came to check it out as a conversational topic.
...I have difficulty operating machinery and am liable to destroy electronic devices I come in contact with. I assessed the machines in the arcade and concluded that risk management would be necessary
due to their size.
For both Bourbon's sake and the machines', I offer to show her around.
I greatly appreciate your cooperation.
Waving my hand, I motion that it's no problem. I decide that it would be safer to have me controlling the arcade machines instead of her.
It's not often we get to have days off. Let's have fun!
Understood. Initiating "let's have fun" protocol.
And so, our tour of the arcade begins.
Rock, paper, scissors, shoot! Sorry, you lost!
One win, nine losses. A substantial drop in your happiness has been detected. May I offer some ice cream? Sweets are known for their mood-boosting properties.
Drumroll please... Congratulations! You win!
A considerable amount of coins are spilling out of this machine. Is it malfunctioning?
16,000 points! You sent that monster flying!
Punching power has been recorded as 16,000 points in my database. Unit of measurement unknown.
Despite her rather unorthodox reactions, I can see Mihono Bourbon is enjoying the arcade.
It would be a waste to go home without her playing at least one game, though. After a few minutes of searching, I point at a crane game.
Is this what you wish for me to play? Your invitation is appreciated, but my estimations show that I may permanently put this device out of service.
Don't worry. I'll take care of the controls.
I ask her to watch from the side and provide instructions. Content, Mihono Bourbon nods and positions herself.
Understood. I will calculate distances and supply directions.
Sliding a coin into the slot, the machine whirs to life. We begin aiming for a bunny perched on top of the toys.
Please move twenty-two centimeters, yes, stop right there. According to my analysis, we have a 98% chance of success.
Nodding, I press the button to grab the prize. The plastic claw wraps around the toy's neck.
Flop.
The prize slips out and lands back where it started.
...Lack of grip strength, noted. Adjusting calculations.
Initiating a new course of action, pushing. With this, we have an estimated 91% chance of...
Flop.
...I have overestimated the arm's maneuvering ability once again. Reanalyzing.
I predict a 75% chance of success...
Flop.
... ...This contraption is proving to be a fearsome foe.
I use up every trick I know, but the stuffed animal remains unattainable.
My apologies, Trainer. My failure in ascertaining the arm's strength led to such disappointing results.
...However, I believe there is a 70% chance that we will procure the prize on our next turn. I suggest a final attempt.
The sudden proposal contradicts her usual passive attitude. She must be REALLY determined to win.
Let's do it! We're definitely gonna get it this time!
Understood. I will try my absolute best.
Please stop there. Now move forward by fourteen centimeters. We will push the toy to the very edge and allow it to fall naturally into the prize box.
Biting my lip, I press the button to grab the bunny. It falls, balancing precariously on the edge of the hole.
I hold my breath as if any movement would throw the stuffed animal back toward its friends. Glancing to my side, I notice Mihono Bourbon doing the same.
After losing its battle with gravity, the bunny slides gracefully into the prize box.
Thank you for your support. I am now equipped to handle conversations about arcades. What's most interesting, however, is that I experienced new sensations today.
During our attempts at the claw game, I observed new physical responses. A ticklish feeling occurred inside my chest, along with involuntary movements of my facial muscles. I have added these new
responses to my "small talk" parameters.
It sounds like you had lots of fun.
...Is this what you define "fun" as?
Mihono Bourbon slowly lets the word fall out of her mouth, as if uncertain about its pronunciation. I gently explain what those feelings mean.
I see now.
It seems illogical to experience "fun" while doing something unproductive such as capturing stuffed animals with implausibly weak mechanical arms.
Well, I wouldn't call it that...
Carefully choosing my words, I express the value of doing so-called "unproductive" things from time to time.
The main purpose is to enjoy ourselves.
...I see. All of this information is quite novel to me. It seems that I have entered a state of "shock" now.
I will input this new information in as well. Perhaps seemingly meaningless events are not so meaningless after all.
Gently petting the bunny we got together, Mihono Bourbon ponders over her newly gleaned perspectives.
7. Update Complete
69 linesWould you be interested in attending the fireworks festival with me tonight?
On a hot afternoon in the middle of summer camp, Mihono Bourbon approaches me with a slightly nervous look on her face.
O-of course!
I blurt out my reply without a second thought. It's the first time she's ever invited me to something. Excitement bubbles inside of me as I wait for the evening to come.
According to my research, there are an average of 70,000 attendees and ninety stalls. Out of the stalls, we have nine games to choose from.
Shooting gallery, candy-cutting, goldfish scooping, yo-yo balloons, ring toss, raffle draw, string lottery, punch box, or watermelon splitting. Where should we begin?
Her usual passive demeanor dissolves as she rattles off a list of activities. A look of determination sparkles in her eyes.
You must really like festivals.
I neither like nor dislike them. I would say I have an average amount of appreciation for them.
Then why did you want to come here today?
...I believe that spending time together will deepen our connection.
...?
Well... up until now, I have been categorizing social events like this as inconsequential.
But perhaps... I was mistaken.
As she speaks, a hint of emotion colors her voice. Her hand brushes against her pocket, revealing a familiar-looking stuffed animal.
Is that...
The small round eyes of the bunny peek out from underneath the fabric.
For a long time, I struggled to understand the significance of "having fun."
But for some reason, when this toy is with me, training and studying become radically different. My motivation levels are amplified.
Ever since I began engaging in social interactions, I've realized that there is value in pursuing "enjoyment."
...!
Perhaps this is what my parents wanted me to understand.
Not sociability as a parameter, but as... something warmer.
Mihono Bourbon's words come together like puzzle pieces, spelling out her growth and awareness. I feel prouder than ever, knowing how much effort it must've taken to arrive at this conclusion.
All right, I'm feeling pumped now! We're gonna have tons of fun tonight!
I lead the bemused student onto the crowded main street, eager to make the best of the evening.
Please aim five degrees lower. You're too low now, go up, that's right, stop right there.
Click, pop!
Oooh, you're a good shot, mister! Congrats on winning the grand prize!
It's all thanks to her directions!
Hahaha, that's what I call teamwork! Here ya go, now don't lose it on the way back home!
...Thank you.
We visit nearly every game stall, basking in the festivities. Time flies and before we know it, the night draws to a close.
The fireworks will begin shortly. I suggest we move to a better location for optimal viewing.
Huh? Is that... Bourbon?
Waving at us from the distance is the girl who approached Bourbon the other day.
You engaged me in conversation during my break. Statistically, this action suggests a underlying motive.
I just wanted to talk to you... I'm sorry for taking up your time! I'll get going now!
Wow, I didn't expect to bump into you here! What a coincidence! O-oh but, I'm sorry if I'm interrupting you two...
No need to worry. ...Did you also come here to observe the fireworks?
Tonight's display will showcase an impressively large circular design as the centerpiece. It is something that I am, as you would say, "looking forward to."
Umm... That's it? You're just looking forward to the fireworks? Like, no scientific reason or anything?
Correct.
...Huh?
The Umamusume looks at Mihono Bourbon, puzzled by her simple response.
In the past, the stoic student would've launched into an analytical monologue. Now, she's taking in the sights and living in the moment.
Why don't we go watch them together?
Are you sure?
It'll be fun with more people around!
...Understood.
Carefully, Mihono Bourbon turns to the student.
Would you like... to view the fireworks together?
Peeew! Boom!
Wow, they're so pretty! I wasn't sure about coming to the festival by myself, but I'm really glad I plucked up the courage!
Bumping into you, looking at pretty things together, ah, sorry! I hope I'm not boring you with this conversation...
No, please continue. Do you find these explosions enjoyable?
Yeah, I love them! It doesn't matter whether they're big or small, just being around them makes me feel like I can do anything! I love experiencing things that I normally can't, like fireworks or even being
with people!
...Which is why I got a little ahead of myself. I'm sorry if I made you uncomfortable earlier when I called out to you. Sometimes I'm not good at keeping my distance...
I understand. If calculating distances is not your forte, then I may be of great assistance.
For example, there are thirty-four centimeters of space between us. The shaved ice stall behind you at four o'clock is eight meters and twenty-four centimeters away.
Are you... naturally like this?
If you are referring to my physical composition, then yes, I am all natural. I do not possess any mechanical components.
Hehe, I think I figured you out now!
Underneath the spectacular illuminations, the two students chatter away as if the fireworks will never stop.
The next day.
Hello, Father, it's Mihono Bourbon. I am calling to inform you that your order has been exec...
Actually, my apologies. I would like to report a change in personal affairs instead.
I... made a friend.