Uma Musume: Pretty Derby story · Character stories
Smart Falcon's story
7 scenes, 439 lines
1. Creating My Own Destiny ☆
65 linesI've had an exhausting day, running in and out of the academy to prepare for tomorrow's tryouts.
It's going to be a big event, especially for runners hoping to get scouted. As I walk home feeling nervous for tomorrow, I stumble upon a curious sight.
Hmm-hm-hm, hm-hm-hm! ♪ Hmm-hm-hm, hm-hm-hm-hmm! ♪
(Is she... performing?)
She isn't dressed up or even holding a mic, not to mention the complete lack of an audience.
Despite it all, she's pouring her heart into singing and dancing, almost appearing to sparkle as the evening sun casts its light upon her.
I stop in my tracks to watch her, not from fatigue, but from the sheer charm she exudes. Seeing her smile somehow fills me with energy, both physically and mentally.
(You know what... Maybe I can get a little more work done!)
Though unable to stick around until the end, I offer her a round of applause as thanks for her energizing performance.
The day for tryouts finally arrives. Excited to see what the new batch of racers will bring, I head to the academy in high spirits.
Voice, check. Air mic, check. Flyers, check. Perfect! I think I'm ready! ☆
(Wait, didn't I see her yesterday?)
Hi, everyooone! Sorry to keep you waiting! It's me, Smart Falcon! I hope I make your hearts race today! ☆
...?!
It's time for Falco's special show, so heeere we gooo! First, I wanna hear yo...
Wait, waaaah?! You're the person from yesterday!
The Falco Fan Club's very first member!
...?!
Woooow, what a coincidence! ☆ I actually wanted to talk to you!
But you left halfway through my show, so I missed my chance. I was kinda sad you didn't watch 'til the end, but thanks for the applause! ☆
W-wait a sec...
Wha, Smart Falcon! You're holding another one of your flash concerts, aren't you?!
Oops, she caught me again. ☆
This is the fifteenth time this month! You're going to drive me crazy with all these "cute and sparkly" acts of yours!
Oh, um, looks like you've become a fan! Thank you for your support! ☆ But I can't say I like that angry attitude! ☆
With that said, I gotta run! ♪ C'mon! You're coming with me!
Huh?!
I have no idea what's going on. Swept up in the moment, I end up following Smart Falcon.
Hey! Come back here!
Phew... I think we lost her. We should be safe now. ☆
Pant... pant...
Geez, that was exhausting! ☆ Are you okay? Thanks for sticking with me! ♪
Let me reintroduce myself! My name's Smart Falcon, and I'm an Umadol! You can call me Falco though! ♪
You're a what?
An Umadol, an Umamusume idol! ☆
Umadols run like normal Umamusume... but they also inspire their audience during winning concerts by shining onstage, like an idol!
My dream is to become a top Umadol one day. That's why I'm doing what I can to get my name out there every day! ☆
But well... I don't have a trainer at the moment, so I don't think I'll be racing anytime soon, let alone holding concerts...
Wait... Hold on!
Ummm... A-are you... like... uhhh... a trainer?!
I am.
Whoooa!
Yaaay! I guess my luck's finally turned around!
Who would've thought my first fan would turn out to be a trainer?! What a dramatic turn of events, perfect for an Umadol! ☆
Uhhh...
Okay, here's your contract! All you need to do is sign!
Huh?!
Oh, don't have a pen? That's fine! I make sure to carry one on me at all times, along with a full contract! After all, you never know when you might get scouted! ☆
At this rate, she's going to make me her trainer by force... I should get to know her before this goes any further.
Could I at least watch you run first?
Yes. Are you participating in today's tryouts?
Um... yeah... Technically speaking...
Then it's decided.
Aw... I thought I'd be able to convince you with just my positive vibes...
Argh! Whatever! I can do this! Raaaagh! ☆
...?!
All right, I'll run! But you have to promise that you'll keep your eyes on me the whole time, got it? ☆
Smart Falcon seems to be trying a little too hard to hype herself up. Just as I'm about to ask her why...
Get back here! Smaaart Faaalcooon!
Whoa, she's getting faster! Sorry, but I gotta go now! See ya later!
...In the end, I decide to see just how well this self-proclaimed Umadol will run on the track.
2. My Way or the Highway ♪
67 linesIt's finally time for tryouts to begin. It looks like Smart Falcon will be participating in the 1,600-meter turf race.
Sigh... Wait, no. I have to be positive and smile brightly, like a true Umadol!
But still... What if I fail aga, no! I can't let myself think like that! I've been training super hard! I'm sure I'll be fine this time!
She still looks unsure of herself as she starts out the gate.
Yaaaah!
Although she runs as fast as she can, the trainers watching her remain unimpressed.
Smart Falcon's here again, huh? I get that she's trying her best, but there's something missing from her running...
Just like the other trainer says, Smart Falcon seems to be struggling on the track.
Huff... huff... huff... Sigh...
Out of the race's twelve contestants, Smart Falcon finishes in tenth place.
Although her placement is less than ideal, the power in her running form drew my attention. It's not that she's missing something from her running, but rather...
Oh, there you are! Aaah, I probably looked super lame back there... Sorry about that.
But hey, I heard that people like cheering on the underdog! You know, since it's nice to see them grow!
I suppose...
I'm beginning to suspect that it isn't a matter of growth, but compatibility. Given her style of running, a dirt course might suit her better...
...I'm no good, huh?
Hm?
To tell you the truth, it wasn't just today. I messed up all my other tryouts too. I don't have anything to show for myself, so nobody wants to scout me...
I know I don't have a lot going for me, but still... I want to become the best Umadol ever!
It's my dream to win races and perform winning concerts on the biggest stages! But I can't do that on my own...
That's why... I need you! I need your help to reach my goal!
Please, help me! Even a single training session would mean the world to me!
Her words are earnest, and I can see that she wants nothing more than to achieve her dreams. Naturally, as a trainer, I want to lend her a hand.
...Okay!
Huh? Really?! Like, for real?! Phew... I'm so glad I asked you!
I can't wait to start training with you! Bring it on! Whatever it is, I'll do it. No holding back, okay?
For now, I decide to set aside the question of whether or not I'll become Smart Falcon's trainer and focus on preparing her for the next round of tryouts.
Nrgh! Nnnngh! Hrnng! ☆
Wow, look at her doing those leg curls! Those weights look super heavy! Her smile's kinda creeping me out though...
Okay! I'm ready to run! ☆ Hiyayayayaaah!
I don't see any issues with her weight lifting or incline running. If anything, she seems stronger than the average runner. Yet...
Huff... huff... huff... H-how's my time?!
Could use some improvement.
Siiigh... Oof... I'm not getting any better...
Whenever she races on a turf course, her results are always lackluster. My hunch seems to be right that it's a compatibility issue.
Hey...
Ahhhh! Suzuka! Over here!
Um... Excuse me, but I have to train for tomorrow's race.
Surrounded by the cheers of excited Umamusume, Silence Suzuka looks somewhat troubled. Already having made her debut, she's been putting on an impressive display across many races.
Hey, you guys! ☆ I get that you all are huge fans of hers, but you gotta give her some space!
(How'd she get there so fast?!)
Suzuka's getting ready to train so she can shine during her next race! True fans should be patient and wait to watch her then, don't you think?
She's right... Sorry for bothering you!
Thank you, Falcon... I wasn't sure what to do there...
Just call me Falco! ☆ If you're ever in that kinda situation again, just make yourself clear! They'll listen, I promise! ♪
But I'm sure you know that better than I do...
(...?)
Anyway, you've got practice, right? Good luck! ☆ I'll be cheering for you too! ♪
So... could you explain why we're here at the dirt course?!
I just want to time your running here as well.
I believe a course that requires power, in other words, a dirt course, might better suit Smart Falcon. I tell her how I'd like to confirm my suspicions.
(That speed... She's incredible!)
I was right. Her time on the dirt course is leaps and bounds better. She's met, no, exceeded my expectations.
Pant... pant... pant...
That was your best time yet!
Everything's falling into place. I now know for certain that running on a dirt course, which requires more strength than agility, brings out her true potential.
But with that, a new question arises. Why haven't her teachers picked up on something as elementary as this and told her about it?
You should be running in dirt races.
Huh?
I have to win on turf or this is all pointless! I don't have any other choice!
A-anyway, I have dance practice now, so let's call it here! Thank you for today!
Ah...
As I watch Smart Falcon dash across the dirt at an incredible speed, I begin to wonder why she insists on running in turf races. Her reasoning could be a hint to helping her grow.
3. A Sentimental Dream
66 linesFalcon? She isn't here. She left about one hour and thirty-five minutes ago.
A day has passed since I recommended that Smart Falcon run on dirt courses. Wanting to talk to her again, I've come to her dorm in search of her.
Um, who are you?
My apologies for the late introduction. I'm Eishin Flash, Smart Falcon's roommate.
Are you... Falcon's trainer? If it's urgent, contacting her smartphone is the surest way to get a hold of her.
Although I can't guarantee that she'll check her phone. She might've turned it off by now.
Do you know where she went?
Well...
Silence Suzuka was amazing! I knew she was good, but I didn't think she'd win by that much!
I'm so glad we caught the whole thing in person! I can't wait to see Suzuka take center stage for the winning concert!
My search for Smart Falcon leads me to the racetrack. The stadium's filled to the brim with excited onlookers waiting for the winning concert to begin.
Wooow! This is so exciting! ☆ Go, Suzuka! You can do it! I believe in you!
Fal...
YEAHHH! SUZUKAAA!
The concert begins. Everyone's eyes are glued to the incredible performance that follows.
Though Silence Suzuka's voice isn't the loudest, the joy in it is palpable, a joy shared by all her cheering fans.
Ahhhh! Sniffle... Suzukaaa! You're the best! Watching you run makes me feel like I can do anything! I'll keep working hard, just like you do!
For a moment, I find myself captivated like everyone else. Then my eyes drift over to Smart Falcon.
...
Her eyes are also locked onto the stage, but something about her gaze seems... different.
After the concert ends, I look for Smart Falcon, but she's already gone. It's possible that she left for the dorm, but I suspect otherwise.
Hi, everybody! I'm Falco! That was a great concert, wasn't it? ☆ Suzuka never fails to impress!
But don't go anywhere yet! I'll give you a fantastic performance too! All I ask is that you remember my name! ☆ With that said, let's get started! ♪
My suspicions are confirmed when I spot Smart Falcon performing by the riverside. Maybe this is just a plan to attract an audience still riding their concert high, but...
Hey, she looks like an Umamusume too. Do you know her?
Nah, never seen her. Maybe she hasn't made her debut yet? Anyway, wasn't Suzuka's concert great? My favorite part was when she...
(No one's staying to watch her...)
Pant... pant... How was that, everybody?! It's my dream to one day perform on a major stage! ☆
One day...
I... wonder when that'll be...
Well, it's not like anybody here would know. Time to head, oh.
I... I've always loved idols a lot, ever since I was little. They're so cute, and they smile so bright that they light up any stage.
I kept telling myself that I'd be an idol one day too. But that dream changed just a little when I saw my first race.
I went because I'd heard that Umamusume sing and dance just like idols do, in addition to race. It was such a strange concept to me that I had to find out more.
Seeing everybody running their hardest, I couldn't take my eyes off the racetrack, not even for a second!
But what was even more exciting was the concert that came after! When the spotlight hit them, everyone shone twice as bright as they did on the racetrack!
I thought to myself, "That's what I want!" Umamusume shine their brightest while running, and their winning concerts are the cherry on top!
That's when I decided to become an Umadol! I wanted to light up the world like they did, no, even more than that! I wanted to become a shining beacon of hope!
Just like... the way Suzuka did today, taking first place and performing center stage...
I want to be a shining star just like her! I want to be an Umadol that moves the hearts of all who watch me!
If I keep working hard, one day my dream'll come true. Or at least, that's what I keep telling myself...
Falcon...
Oh, I don't mean to say that I feel like giving up! Let me make it clear, I still dream of becoming a world-class Umadol!
It's just that... that dream feels so distant today. Suzuka was so amazing, it's hard to think I could follow in her footsteps... Haha... ha...
You have a shot at winning if you run in dirt races.
Yeah, I know... I actually knew as much from the start.
Ever since I was admitted here, my teachers have all suggested that I run on dirt courses. They say it suits me better.
But... I can't become a top Umadol running in dirt races. You know what I mean, right?
Because they aren't as popular as turf races...
Uh-huh. If I choose to run in dirt races, I'll never perform on a big stage like Suzuka did today.
The fans like turf races because that's where all the superstars are. It's only fair that the runners who win there are considered the best.
Sure, I could run on dirt courses, win races, and be the star of those winning concerts.
But... that's not what I want! I don't want to be the lead of just any concert! My dream is to become a top Umadol and make it big on the greatest stages!
I don't want to give up on my dreams just 'cause I'm "better suited" for something else! There's no room for compromise! I can't do it! I won't do it!
So that's how it is...
You probably think I'm being ridiculous. But I don't care! I'll keep racing on turf courses in hopes of one day achieving my dream!
I understand her reason for wanting to run in turf races. I also agree that it's important to dream big, but...
She seems to think that dirt racing is some kind of second-rate category, and that's just not right. In order to help her realize that...
Would your teachers be okay with you missing class tomorrow?
Huh?! Oh, uh... As long as you're the one asking for permission, they'd probably be okay with it, but... why?
I want to take you to a race.
Okay. I still don't get why, but I'll do it.
But in exchange, you have to do one thing for me!
And that would be?
Well, you see...
I'd like it if you called me Falco, not Falcon! ☆ It sounds cuter that way!
4. Top Umadol or Bust ☆
71 linesAs promised, I contact Smart Falcon's teachers, notifying them that she'll be taking the day off. Together, we then head to Oi Racecourse.
We're watching a dirt race today.
Ohhh, now I get it... but why today? It's not like any big races are going on, and there aren't that many people either.
You're trying to show me how great dirt racing can be, right? If that's the case, why not take me to a more important race?
Just watch. You'll see what I'm getting at.
...?
The competition is incredibly fierce today. Covered in dust from head to toe, every runner gives their all in the race.
They fight to eke out every last bit of strength in their bodies. The sight is the furthest thing from pretty, and yet...
C'mon! You can do it! Let's goooo!
Ah! Oh no! Look out! She's gonna, ahhhh!
Captivated by the runners' passion to win, the small audience erupts into a cacophony of roars. Eventually...
Pant... pant... Thank you all for cheering so hard for me! I really appreciate the support!
Pant... Phew... All right, let's finish the day with a smile! Next up, our winning concert! As for the song we'll be singing...
Wow... That was amazing! Like, beyond awesome even! And their concert was fantastic too!
It sure was.
All the runners looked like they were about to pass out... but they pushed through and kept going! Even though they got covered in dirt, they shone like stars with the way they rushed across the track...
Oh... I think I get it now. An Umadol shines brightest when she's doing her best and running with everything she's got!
Their concert was all the more moving because of how hard they worked to get there. They're exactly the kind of Umadol I want to be someday!
I guess it doesn't matter if the course is turf or dirt. You can inspire your fans either way! How could I have been so blind to that?
I just assumed that I wouldn't be able to move my audience if I ran in dirt races, but I couldn't have been more wrong! Sigh... I'm honestly disappointed in myself...
So you've changed your mind about running in dirt races?
Well, for the moment, all I can say is... I'm glad I was able to watch today's race. I learned something important, and I also had a lot of fun!
But I wouldn't have realized these things without outside help... It's still a fact that people don't care as much about dirt races, so these winning concerts probably fly under the radar.
And because they don't feature top runners, they'll stay unnoticed... It feels like such a shame.
Then all you have to do is raise the ceiling.
Huh? What do you mean?
There's more to dirt racing than just being "suited" for it, right?
Oh... I get it now!
You're right! All I need to do is make dirt racing a place for top racers through my running, singing, and dancing!
I'll make it so more people want to run in and watch dirt races! I'll change the racing world!
Wait... Isn't that super hard? Like, harder than just becoming a world-class Umadol?
Maybe.
Ahaha... I guess I shouldn't give up just 'cause it's going to be a challenge, right? All that means is that I need to try harder than ever!
But it doesn't matter how hard I try if nobody knows who I am! So the first step toward my goal is to make myself known to the world!
Keep it up, and your day will come!
"Keep it up?" I've gotta go above and beyond or nothing will change! Especially in the marketing department! ☆
I shake my head. What she doesn't know is that she's already making good progress. After all...
I became your number one fan for a reason!
Huh?
I remember when I first laid eyes upon her. Her lone figure sparkled underneath the evening sun as she danced and sang before a backdrop of vibrant orange.
No one was watching. No one was listening. And yet, she smiled wide and sang as if reaching out to an audience of thousands.
She filled me with hope and courage, and I wouldn't trade her for anyone else in the world.
Oh wow...
...Thank you.
Okay, I've got it! I know what I want to do about my next tryout race!
A few months go by, and the first batch of tryouts since I started training with Smart Falcon rolls around.
All right, I'm gonna head out now! ☆ I'd better hear you cheering me on! ☆
Who's the new face? She looks incredibly excited... I don't think I've ever seen her in a dirt race before.
(Prepare to be surprised.)
The crowd's attention quickly shifts to the more high-profile runners. But that's exactly what we need for her to stand out.
Phew... Hiyaaaa! ☆☆☆
Wha... Whoa, she's fast!
Smart Falcon kicks up a storm of dust, widening the gap between her and the other runners at an incredible speed. All eyes lock onto her.
Ahaha, it's so easy to run on dirt! But I knew that! I've always known that! This...
This is my stage! This is where I shine brightest! And I'm finally ready to sparkle! ☆☆
Smart Falcon runs as freely as a bird soaring through the sky. The dirt course is hers for the taking, and no one else even comes close.
Yaaay! I did it! I won! ☆☆
H-hey! Can I talk to you for a minute! Who even are you?! And where have you been all this time?! Are you looking for a trainer? If you are...
Awww, am I famous already? ☆ Sorry, but I'll have to get back to you on that!
Oh, there you are! I was looking for you!
Nice job.
Thanks! ☆ Hey, how was I? Did I light up the track?
Of course!
Ehehe... I'm glad. Anyway, let's talk. There's something I've been meaning to ask you, so listen carefully, okay?
Will you be my trainer and help me become the best Umadol I can be?
Of course, Falco! Let's do it!
Ehehe! Thanks so much! ☆☆
Now that that's settled... Hello, my fans, both old and new! I'd like to introduce myself one more time! ☆
What do you do when Falco runs?! (Chase her! Chase her!) Catch me with hearts full of love! ☆ I'm Smart Falcon, and I'm the cutest Umadol around! ☆
My dream is to become dirt racing's top Umadol! And in order to make my dream come true, I need your support! So please...
Show me your love and catch me if you can! ☆ Ehehe! ♪
5. Cheering in the Spotlight
42 linesHeeeey, Trainer! Listen to this!
One day, as I'm making my rounds throughout the academy, I spot Smart Falcon running my way with a huge grin on her face.
I'm gonna be cheerleading at the next Tracen Meet! ☆
You mean the Tracen Meet?
Held twice a year at Tracen Academy, the Tracen Meet is a race that never fails to attract a crowd. It's one of the institution's largest events.
Yep! The one and only! There's gonna be sooo many people coming to watch!
I wonder if I can make all those people my fans if I dance for them! Ehehe! ♪
Later that evening, I run into her a second time, but her energy is drastically different.
Go, go. You can do it. Let's go. Do it, do it...
(Did something happen?)
I'm about to call out to her when I notice her talk to another Umamusume.
Sigh... I really wanted to dance, y'know?
Yeah... Why'd they put us on flag duty anyway?
"You should do dirt racing!" this. "You're really good at twirling a flag!" that. It's like we never get a say in what we do. Nobody's ever gonna notice us at this rate...
It appears the two have been assigned to flag duty instead of the main cheerleading roles.
(How should I approach them?)
As I try to come up with something positive to say...
Well, it is what it is, so we might as well make the most of it and do our best! C'mon, let's get back to practice!
So we hold it like this... and spin it like that! Then we do this, and... voila! Easy as pie!
Their flags flutter in the evening sky. As I watch the two flag-bearers handle the heavy poles with ease, I begin to understand why they were assigned that role.
With their practice now complete, Smart Falcon's partner takes her leave, leaving me free to approach the now-alone Umamusume.
Phew... That took way more energy than I thought it would... I'm totally exhausted!
You twirled that flag like a champ.
Whoa, Trainer! When did you get here?!
Sigh... I really did want to show off my cute dance moves instead of... this.
Flag-bearers are important too.
I guess that's true... Maybe I'll still be able to wow people like this.
Smart Falcon remains a bit doubtful, but the day of the Tracen Meet arrives regardless.
Go! Go! You can do it! Let's go! Do it! Do it!
Smart Falcon twirls her flag next to the breathtaking dancers, waiting for her time in the spotlight. When it's finally her turn, she moves to the center and seizes the opportunity.
Go! Go! YOU CAN DO IT! Let's go! Do it! DO IT!
Wow! Look at her with the flag! She's amazing!
Yeah! The way she handles that thing... I've never seen someone so in sync with their flag!
(That's it! You're doing it!)
...Or so I thought.
Man, these cheerleaders are crazy good! Are you seeing this?! Tell me who else could pull off a pyramid like that!
Wow, you're right! And look at their beautiful smiles! They're so cool and cute that I can't take my eyes off them! ♪
Sigh... "The flag-bearers were great, but the cheerleaders were the stars of the show!" is all I keep hearing...
I knew I couldn't compete with them...
You did your best, and that's what matters!
But they probably won't remember who I am! Maybe they'll be able to recall the flag's pattern, but not who waved it...
Some results take time and effort to attain, and becoming a top Umadol might be one of them.
6. Too Much Input!
63 linesLa-laaah, la-la-laaah! ♪ Oh!
On my day off, I decide to go out shopping. Upon stepping outside, I run into Smart Falcon.
Are you going out too? I'm on my way to get some creative input! ♪
Creative input for what?
For how to become the most cute 'n' sparkly Umadol ever, of course!
The other day, this one super popular idol said, "I made it to where I am today thanks to all the input I got!"
So I figured I need more input too! So much that I can't fit any more into my head! And just enough that I don't go crazy!
...This sounds slightly concerning.
Need any help?
Huh? I mean, sure, if you're willing! I'll take all the advice I can get! ☆
First, we go to a movie theater to watch a musical.
Sniff... That last scene was wonderful... I didn't think the bartender would be a descendant of the Mozart...
The songs and choreography were amazing too.
Yep! You can really tell how much everyone loves their craft! It's a bit different from Umadol stuff, but I think performances like these are special in their own way! ♪
Next, we head to an amusement park famous for its parades.
Whoa! Look at that mascot character over there! It's so round, but its movements are so sharp!
Whoever they are, they're a total pro.
Uh-huh! You'd definitely have to practice every day to move like that!
Okay, I'm gonna practice back handsprings 'til I can do ten in a row in any outfit!
We hit the streets and soon stumble upon a freestyle rap battle going on outside.
Whoa, a rap battle! This is the first time I've seen something like this in real life! Th-they're really into it!
This is a clash of two strong personalities, right? Identity is an important part of being an Umadol, but I don't know if I'm on their level yet...
No need to compare yourself to a rapper.
But I think it'd be better to have some kind of persona! Wouldn't that be more fun to watch?!
I need to develop one interesting enough to beat those rappers! Maybe something edgy!
I feel like we're veering off track here...
As we return to the station, the sound of a powerful drum fills the air. I look around, but there's not a drum to be found, only a lone, empty-handed performer.
Wow! Air drums!
Excuse me?
That's so cool! The performer's air drumsticks perfectly match the music coming from the speakers!
It's like there are real drums there! How do you move your body so freely like that?! All I can do is sing and dance...
Hmmm... If I practice enough, maybe I can do that too! Air drums... Air guitar... Doesn't matter which!
...She's gotten completely sidetracked.
Night falls, and we arrive at a nearly empty park. The only sound around us is the rustling of leaves in the wind. Well, that, and...
H-huh?! What's that?!
That noise... It sounds like a flute those wandering monks use!
I can't believe that one's just out here alone, playing by themselves! Now that's confidence! Talk about believing in yourself!
Do you think... I could do the same?
No, not yet! I'm not even close to their level! I still have a ways to go before I can be a monk, don't I?!
Smart Falcon looks my way, her gaze determined yet strangely hollow. On her face is the expression of a lost soul.
Get your act together!
Wha?!
What is it that you want to be?
What I want to be? Isn't it obvious?
...Oh. That's what you mean.
You're right. I'm not trying to become a monk, a rapper, or an air drummer.
I'm trying to be... an Umadol.
Input is only meant to be food for thought.
Thank you for reminding me... I almost lost sight of what really matters.
Ehehe, I'm glad you came along. I would've been running around in circles on my own.
What inspired you the most today?
Hm... The movie had amazing acting, but the parade showed off some incredible stunts.
The rap battle was intense in a good way, and the air drums were crazy impressive. As for the monk, well... I'm still shocked we just randomly ran into one.
But they all shared one thing in common, they believed in themselves and stuck to their own paths! So... Oh!
That's it! What I liked the most was the way they all shined!
What do you mean?
Every performer and their audiences had a sparkle in their eyes! ☆
Well, actually, I don't know if the monk had a sparkle. I didn't get to see their face... But anyway!
Everyone gave everything for their performances, and it inspired all the people watching!
Isn't that amazing? It makes me want to light up the world for other people too!
And so, the next day...
Hey, Trainer! Have you heard of fire dancing before?
...I admire the desire to learn, but she is way too easily influenced. I'll have to keep an eye on her moving forward.
7. In the Heat of Summer ☆
65 linesWhich shaved ice should I get? ♪ Maybe pineapple since it's summer? Oh, but kiwi sounds good too...
Hmmm... They all look delicious! I need to take a closer look at the menu. I'll be right back!
Don't take too long!
Right now, Smart Falcon and I are at the academy's summer camp, taking a quick break between training sessions.
Sigh... What's the point of going somewhere for summer training camp, when all I see is dirt, dirt, and more dirt! Give me a change of scenery for once!
Out of the blue, I hear a deep sigh. I look back and see a familiar-looking runner kicking at the dirt around her.
I'm baaack! ☆ I think I'm gonna go with the Happy Hawaiian Blue flavor this time! ♪
In the middle of my observations, Smart Falcon returns from checking out the menu, so we head to the cashier to buy our shaved ice.
Phew! Another great day of training! Nothing like a frozen treat to get you motivated!
Hm? What's going on over there? Seems like there's a huge crowd gathering.
Why don't we go take a look?
Smart Falcon and I head toward the crowd to see what's going on. Once we get there...
What do I do? What do I do?!
A group of trainers and their Umamusume trainees surround a lone trainer. The young man appears to be panicking, unable to decide what to do next.
I wonder what happened here...
Her guess is as good as mine, so I decide to ask the trainers there to shed light on the situation.
What's going on?
W-we've got an emergency on our hands! Break time's over, and my trainee hasn't come back yet!
She isn't responding to our attempts to contact her, even though the sun's about to set. If she isn't back before dark, she may end up lost.
Oh no! We've got to hurry up and find her! C'mon, let's get moving!
Right, we should help look for her.
Correct. This isn't the time to be panicking. Let's split into multiple search parties. Do you know where she might've gone?
Thank you all so much! Uhhh, let's see...
After determining the trainee's potential locations, each party goes their own way to search. As we head to our assigned spot...
We're at the far end of the beach. It doesn't seem like anybody's here...
We can't rule this place out just yet.
Yeah, maybe she went out for a walk and ended up going super far. Sometimes that happens.
Well, now that we're here, we should get started on our search! I'll check the areas that are farther out! Y'know, since running on sand is my thing!
Wait!
Eager to look for the lost Umamusume, Smart Falcon dashes off into the distance before I can say anything.
Pant... pant... pant...
(Is she over here? Or is she that way? Hrk... I ran so fast I forgot to pay attention to where I am...)
(But I agreed to help, so I have to do whatever I can! Full speed ahead, max power! ☆ Let's gooo!)
Huh? Is that... Falco? Why is she running here?
I walk for what feels like an eternity, but I'm unable to find Smart Falcon or the missing Umamusume.
How's your search going?! I've looked up and down the beach, but I couldn't find her!
No luck here either.
I see... Dang it! Where do we even look next?!
The clock continues ticking down as our search hits a wall. We need to find her before sundown, no matter what. Just as we ponder what to do next...
I'm baaaaack!
Huh?!
I've returned for your heart! ☆ No matter how far away I go, make sure to catch me! ♪ 'Cause I'm the number one Umadol, Smart Falcon! ☆
Given that her body's completely covered in sand, I assume that Smart Falcon has been running a fair bit. Behind her, I spot the missing trainee.
Falcon!
Trainerrr! I thought I told you to call me Falco! ☆
I'm glad you're safe.
Eheheh... Sorry for making you worry. I was too caught up in the moment, y'know? I just had to go all out!
Apparently the missing trainee had gotten lost after wandering a bit too far. It's thanks to Smart Falcon that she was able to find her way back.
Aw, I wanted to train some more after changing, but it's already dark...
Excuse me, Falco!
Huh? What's up? Wait, it's you!
Yeah, we were on flag duty together, remember? We both have an aptitude for dirt racing... To tell you the truth, I was never happy about that... until now.
When I saw you running earlier, you looked so happy! It's like you were glowing under the sun! It made me think to myself, "Hey, dirt racing might not be half bad!"
...
After sharing her words of gratitude with Smart Falcon, the thankful Umamusume heads off with a dash.
Good for you!
Her eyes... They were sparkling.
And she was looking straight at me... Ehehe, I think I might have another fan!
Everyone gave everything for their performances, and it inspired all the people watching!
Isn't that amazing? It makes me want to light up the world for other people too!
I guess it doesn't matter how you do things as long as give it your all! This calls for a celebration! To my second fan ever! ♪
Time to show the world my lovely smile! ♪ I'm Smart Falcon, and I'm the cutest Umadol around! ☆
Once Smart Falcon sets her mind on something, there's nothing that can stop her from racing toward that goal. She's got charisma and determination in spades. To put it simply...
You're so cool, Falco!
Wait, what?! You're supposed to call me cute! I'm going to pretend you never said that. Now one more time from the top! Remember, cute, not cool!