Symboli Rudolf's story

And crossing the finish line in first place, leagues ahead of the competition, is Symboli Rudolf! What a performance!

Phew... Victory secured. I'm on the right track.

To all in the stands, allow me to extend my gratitude. Your cheers of encouragement led me to this victory.

And to you, trainers: did my performance today satisfy your expectations?

I realize that I still have far to travel in my journey to the top, and I leave much room for improvement.

To that end, I seek a comrade in arms who will march this imperial path with me.

If you share my vision, I implore you to put your name forward.

...

Th-that's easier said than done. She's clearly talented beyond belief, but...

Y-yeah... If her trainer is unable to guide her to victory... their reputation will be shredded.

Steady, now... One last push!

With the homestretch ahead of her, Symboli Rudolf picks up speed, leaving her competitors lagging behind!

She's unstoppable! Her reign is absolute! We're seeing a run worthy of the Triple Crown!

Ah, a trainer... I remember seeing you at the tryouts.

You were at the race, and now you've come to speak to me directly. May I presume you're here to scout me?

Then I've but one question for you: why do you wish to be my trainer?

Hm, I see. "More of my running," you say. I suppose that means you see future potential in me.

For your reference, you're the third trainer I've had this conversation with.

The first spoke of his determination to make me stronger. The second spoke of her commitment to working toward my goal together.

Three days from now, I will ask each of you for your reasoning again.

I would like you to provide a concrete example of your plan to me then.

I apologize for testing you like this. But I can't make the decision lightly, you see.

I am to stand at the absolute zenith, as a guiding light to all Umamusume. That is the mission I've given myself.

If I'm to reach such lofty heights, I can't afford to compromise.

Well, then. We will meet again three days hence. I look forward to your answer.

Three days from now, I will ask each of you for your reasoning again.

I would like you to provide a concrete example of your plan to me then.

Well, now... We meet again. Is the opposite seat taken?

Thank you. The cafeteria's starting to fill up, and I don't want to take up a table by myself.

My apologies if I'm prying, but... You seem troubled.

Ah, I had a sneaking suspicion you might be. It seems I've placed a burden upon your shoulders.

It might not be my place to say this, but try not to overthink it. There's a time to reflect, and a time to rest.

Let's see. While you're here, why not nourish the mind with something sweet?

The natural sugars in fruits, vegetables, and grains help the brain to function, and can enhance your concentration.

If I were to recommend something from today's menu, I would say the seasonal fruit salad is your best bet.

Oh... I suppose I'm preaching to the choir, aren't I? You are a professional trainer, after all.

I didn't mean to lecture you. I'm afraid my mind tends to get lost in details.

Of course. Proper nutrition is vital to maintaining peak physical and mental well-being.

Choosing the optimal meal for your current condition is quite an important consideration.

Naturally, this applies to things other than food as well. Every aspect of one's daily life must be contemplated mindfully.

It's key to think of the broader perspective, how each small decision is an invaluable step toward the top.

Haha, it's really nothing special. I'm not used to being complimented on my diet choices.

I was taught to think strategically, ever since I was little. It's become so ingrained in me, there's no fixing it.

But, well... I suppose that's part of the problem.

Y-yikes... It sounds like the president's having a super-serious talk with that trainer...

Let's go sit somewhere else. We don't want to interrupt them with our chatter!

...You see what I mean? I sat with you to avoid taking that empty table, but the students still won't sit at it.

A student council president should be approachable, someone they can look to for advice. A leader they can trust to guide them...

However, it seems I tend to intimidate my peers instead, what with how stiff my conversations tend to become.

If only I were capable of more casual and engaging conversation, I could be more approachable...

Practice? You mean, with you?

Hahaha!

Oh, my apologies. It's just... How do I put it? You're really going the extra mile for me. I wasn't expecting such a kind offer.

All right, why not? Let's give it a try.

Could you start us off with a topic? Anything will do, choose whatever you feel most comfortable with.

Hobbies, is it? That's certainly a good warm-up topic.

I think I would have to say chess. It's fun to play, of course, but it's equally thought-provoking to analyze past score sheets.

Reading the board, predicting the opponent's moves, planning each action to advance a bigger goal... You could even say chess is a microcosm of our lives...

Wait. That was not at all a casual conversation, was it?

Hmm. I know Rome wasn't built in a day, but this is more challenging than I thought.

Oh, that reminds me! I've actually been researching other ways to enhance small talk!

Namely in the form of jokes. Some witty repartee to lighten up a room and put people at ease!

Very well. Here goes!

The other day, I was walking down the street when I saw a dog with so marvelous a coat that I couldn't help but exclaim, "My, that coat is...

paws-itively wonderful!"

Well? What do you think?!

Hrm... "paws-itively wonderful..." I thought that was pretty clever...

Oh. Hello again, Trainer.

Wait! You're the trainer who was speaking to Rudolf in the cafeteria the other day, right?

Haha! When a trainer has a meal with someone of Rudolf's caliber right after the tryouts, word's bound to get out!

Heh... I guess we attracted more attention than either of us could have expected.

You and Rudolf seem close... Would you mind if I asked a favor of you?

Could you stay by Rudolf's side today and take some candid shots of her?

My apologies for dragging you into this. They want to do an "up close and personal" feature with me, you see.

The only problem is, when I'm surrounded by professional reporters, I end up acting professional myself.

I was at my wit's end, wondering what to do, and that's when you happened to arrive.

I'm sure Rudolf will be able to relax if she's around you! Please help us out!

Wait, you mean it? You... really do go the extra mile.

In that case, I look forward to our day together.

Now then. According to the journalist, I should ignore the camera and go about my daily routine.

There's a new student I'm concerned about. I have an idea to help her better adjust to life here.

Shall we?

Ah. I've been looking for you, Maruzensky.

Well, hello, Rudolf! And hello to you too, trainer.♪

So, what brings you here? Anything I can help you with?

Yes, actually. I was hoping you could help me with a first-year named Grass Wonder.

Grass Wonder! Yes, I know her. She's an absolute sweetie, and so polite! What about her?

It might be because she's not accustomed to the academy's track yet, but she's having a bit of trouble with her technique coming out of the gate.

Is that so? Well, it does take a while to adjust, especially when you're in a brand-new environment.

I don't want her to fall before she's even had a chance to fly. Could you perhaps give her some words of wisdom?

Sure, I can give her some pointers, but... why me, if you don't mind me asking?

Grass Wonder... The explosive burst of energy she puts forth when she runs reminds me somewhat of you.

That's why I figured you'd be in the best position to help her.

That makes sense. You really do look out for all of us, don't you?

I'm totally down, leave it to me! Do you know where Grass is?

I always appreciate the enthusiasm, Maruzensky. I can take you to her now, if you like.

...

Oh, no. She looks so down in the dumps. But I'm on it! I'll turn her frown upside down!

I knew I could count on you. I leave this matter in your capable hands, Maruzensky.

Having me there would make Grass Wonder nervous. That's the last thing I want for her.

Personally, I think she'd be happy to know you're looking out for her. Hehe, but I like this awkward side of you too.

Anyway, I'm off.

That's that, then. I hope speaking with Maruzensky can alleviate Grass Wonder's worries.

Well, for Grass Wonder... I know she lived in the US for a while. She has a gentle outward demeanor that belies an adamant will within.

She runs as a late surger, using cool-headed observation skills to keenly assess the field and seize victory with precision. I expect she'll go on to do great things

And it's not just her. Every student here enters the academy with their own dreams and hopes. Every one of them has the potential to make them come true.

I... wish to make them all happy. I can't help but feel it's my duty to create a world where all of them can wear smiles.

Does this sound like the foolish dream of a sheltered girl? Perhaps that's just what it is.

It goes without saying the road to achieving my goal is long, with no end in sight, but...

Thank you, Maruzensky. I... have been putting myself under a lot of pressure, haven't I?

That's right. You're quite serious, and you always give everything one hundo p!

But trying to please everyone all the time will wear you down. Why don't we chillax and go for a drive sometime?

That sounds wonderful! Hehe... It would be my honor! ♪

Look at her smile.

I hope its warmth never fades... Of that, at least, I have no doubt.

Today is the day.

Well then, trainers, let me hear your answers. Why do you wish to be my trainer?

I'll kick things off. As I said the other day, I guarantee you'll become even stronger under my tutelage, strong enough to stand on that podium as a champion.

This is a three-year training plan. I put all the knowledge and effort I could muster into it.

Superb. Even just glancing at it, I can tell that it's a well thought out plan. I'll take a closer look shortly.

Next would be...

Me, yes. It's true that you have boundless potential, so much so that some trainers are hesitant to work with you.

But I want to see you fulfill your potential. I'm prepared to do whatever it takes to guide you to certain victory!

I've laid out a report with winning race strategies based on an analysis of your runs. Please take a look!

Hmm... Impressive work. I'll look at it in more detail shortly.

And now... Last but not least, I turn to you. Why do you wish to be my trainer?

You said you wanted to see more of my running. In other words, you spoke of your belief in my future potential.

Illustrate to me, please, what that would entail. What future would you seek for me?

Hm? Is this... a photograph of me? When I brought Grass Wonder and Maruzensky together?

So this... is the answer you brought for me?

...!

...I see. With me, huh?

I'm sorry to turn you both down like this after you put in so much work.

...A tremendous pity, but I understand.

We'll leave the rest to you. Help her achieve greatness, we're holding you to that.

They were excellent trainers. Any student would flourish under their guidance.

Why did I choose you? Isn't it obvious?

You made an effort to look at the world from my perspective. And that... made me happier than I expected.

What I aim for, every day of my life, is to create a world where Umamusume can live in bliss. That's what I've been running full-speed toward this entire time.

But, well... I think there was a part of myself that considered it a naïve, faraway dream.

But you're different! I could tell you were willing to go the extra mile, but I didn't expect someone who shared the same vision!

Knowing that brings me so much joy.

Having someone who shares my aspirations, who would seek this future with me by my side... it fills my heart with a reassuring warmth.

Turning the tables on me, are you? Hahaha! I'm flattered that you feel that way!

Well then, let's make it official, shall we?

I am Symboli Rudolf. I stand here at the starting gate with my eyes on one goal: a world where all Umamusume can live in bliss.

But idle talk won't get me anywhere. I must back my words with deeds worthy of attention and respect.

That is why I am aiming for the top, so that I may be a ruler worthy of her crown.

Much time has passed since I first came to the academy. I spent my days serving as the student council president, but now the hour is nigh.

Will you help me take the throne, Trainer?

Excellent. That's what I wanted to hear! We'll make the name Symboli Rudolf one to remember.

Both of us, together.

Thank you for your cheers and well-wishes, everyone!

Symboli Rudolf, what a powerhouse! Such an exceptional performance!

This victory is surely only the beginning of her blazing path to glory!

...High praise indeed.

Heh, looks like we both have great expectations to live up to!

S-so cool!

So that's... Symboli Rudolf!

Ah, it's you. Good timing. Do you have a moment?

Don't worry, it's nothing serious. I wanted to share this view with you, that's all.

Do you see Narita Brian over there? She's in the student council with me.

The other day, she told me she'd dethrone me, that no crown is so secure that it can't be knocked off one's head.

It's as she says. With each passing day, she grows stronger and faster. She runs doggedly toward her prize, never looking back.

Each student in this academy invests the entirety of their spirit into running ever faster toward their goal.

And seeing that motivates me in turn. As the Tracen Academy student council president, and as someone who wishes for their happiness.

There is yet more I must achieve for their sakes.

Precisely.

If I am to stand above my peers and guide them, I must prove myself worthy of such a position.

The path before us is clear. However, neither of us can achieve such a Herculean feat alone. We must work in lockstep...

Eek!

Hm? What was that?!

Look, over there! A pair of students just collapsed! Quickly, follow me!

Pant... pant... Are you all right?!

Huh?! P-President Rudolf?!

Don't force yourself to move. You just took a fall, didn't you? Could one of you explain what happened?

U-um, well, actually...

No, wait! I'm sorry! It's my fault!

Hm?

We were just... well, we were tickling each other, and we lost our balance, that's all...

W-we're sorry! We didn't mean to take up your time! Don't worry about us, we'll be fine!

It's fine, I didn't mean to cause any...

We're so sorryyyyy!

...I suppose I should be glad that neither was hurt.

That said, I jumped to a hasty conclusion and ended up frightening those poor girls. I still have much to learn... How embarrassing.

I do want to close the gap between the other students and myself, but it's certainly not going to happen anytime soon.

Thank you. I truly appreciate it. I'm looking forward to your guidance from here on out.

Oh. Hello, Trainer. I gather you're also here to see Dawn of the Umamusume: The Untrodden Chronicles.

Hm? Is that to say you haven't heard of it?

Dawn of the Umamusume is a series of biographical films that chronicles the careers of various Umamusume racers.

I'll admit, they jazz it up for the screen, but they do an excellent job showing the racers' passions and internal struggles.

The series may hold new insights for you as a trainer, too. I recommend watching it if you have a chance.

Ah! I'm glad to hear it's piqued your interest!

Why don't we watch it together? Hehe, let me know your thoughts afterward!

The struggle of getting past an injury, the miraculous comeback...

Not everyone could make such a splendid rebound, but I think we all can relate to the hardships she faced.

Haha, me too. I'm glad you liked the film as much as I did.

I'm confident you'll like the other titles in the series too. If you want, I can let you borrow my copies.

There, do you see that poster? I knew it was today! I've been waiting ages for this to come out!

Oh my gosh! And we get to see it on the first day! ♪ Sigh... My heart's already racing! I'm ready to swoon!

Hm? Academy students? Their dedication to seeing Dawn of the Umamusume on opening day is commendable.

What a curious comment, though. I didn't realize there was a swoonworthy aspect to the film...

Hmm, let's see... First Love is Sweeter than Carrot Cake?

Judging by the poster, it seems like a tale of young love. Could this be what's popular amongst the students?

Uh... I don't mind, but why?

You have a point.

Having something in common would make for a fine conversation starter. And it's easier to relate to someone who shares your interests.

Yes... It's not just my personality that's creating the gap between myself and everyone else. My hobbies are also on the stuffy side.

As they say, nothing ventured, nothing gained. Naught will come of standing about and lamenting things.

Very well, let us purchase tickets! We can see where this romance goes!

Two films in one day. What an indulgent weekend.

Oh, very much.

Up to the midpoint, the story flowed at an idyllic pace as their relationship progressed, only to hurtle full-speed toward the climax for maximum impact.

The plot had little in the way of unexpected twists, but it depicted the protagonist's emotional journey in great detail.

Though not especially dramatic, the script was well written. Yes, I can understand why the students would like this film.

Hm? I just said my thoughts on the plot, so I'm afraid you've lost me.

Oh, unless... You must mean the protagonist's unique way of expressing her thoughts at the end.

"It's barely autumn... and yet I'm falling for you." Hehe... "Autumn" and "falling"... I hope she never leaves his side.

Relatable? As in, did I see anything of myself in the protagonist's yearnings?

...

I'm afraid to say, I didn't even consider watching a film from such an aspect.

I suppose one could put themself in the protagonist's shoes and experience a vicarious romantic thrill...

Actually... that's how most people would experience the film, isn't it? That must be why students tend to enjoy these kinds of stories.

Next time, I'll keep an eye out for immersive theming. I'm bound to pick up something that helps bridge the gap between me and the others.

Haha, I've learned another lesson thanks to you. Your point of view is truly enlightening.

Phew... That's it for today's training regimen.

The camp has only just begun, so better safe than sorry. I should go for a cooldown walk.

Haha, you certainly make a tempting offer. Very well then, I could use the company.

The mind needs breaks too, after all. There should be a seaside cafe nearby, if you're feeling as peckish as I am.

Oh, good evening, Trainer. Working in your free time? You're certainly dedicated.

I was conducting a light patrol of the camp. ...Perhaps I have too much time on my hands.

Although, I suppose it's a good thing that there are no issues to demand my attention...

Aaaaaah!

Wh-what was that scream?!

Let's go! I pray nothing is wrong!

Aaaaaah!

The screams are coming from more than one direction! What in the world is going on?

Pant... Pant... That last scream came from somewhere around here...

I don't understand. I'm sure I heard someone here just moments ago...

Please... be safe, everyone.

Bwaaaah!

What?!

Huh? Whoa! P-president?! I'm so sorry, I thought you were a classmate!

We're so, so, so sorry! A bunch of us were goofing off, trying to scare each other. I don't even know where to start apologizing...

You were scaring each other? ...So, no one is hurt or in danger?

No...

...

Ahaha! What a relief! If nothing else, you certainly did a great job of spooking me!

U-um... President Rudolf?

Hahaha... Ah, it's nothing. I'm just happy you're making the most of your time together.

My apologies for interrupting your game. Please, carry on.

...

Hm? Is something the matter? You all seem rather lost for words...

A scolding? But they've done nothing wrong. This is their own free time, why shouldn't they use it as they see fit?

We're all students. There's more to our lives than racing and training, and the times we spend together will serve as a vital springboard for the future.

Besides, each day of our lives comes but once. During a special event like this camp, who wouldn't want to make fun memories to look back on?

Even I... Haha. Yes, I would be lying if I were to claim I didn't enjoy these little everyday moments.

Huh?!

Haha. Now, now. You know I can't impose on them like that.

Pay my trainer's words no mind, everyone. We've a long camp ahead of us, so you should take this opportunity to recharge...

U-um! President Rudolf?

If it's all right with you... Would you, you know, care to join us?

...Are you sure?

Y-yes! Only if it's no trouble, though!

Trouble? Perish the thought. Hehe... I would be delighted to join you!

Alpha Team, report.

Yes, ma'am! Preparations are complete, and everyone's in position!

Excellent. Next, Bravo Team, make your way to the staging area. Stay alert for any lurking dangers.

Once you locate an ideal spot, hide yourselves. You know what to do after that, correct?

Yep! We jump out and give the others a good scare!

Superb. Best of luck, and let's scare up some good fun.

Roger that!

Is that really so surprising? I want this spook-off to be a runaway success.

It would be a shame if we didn't put forth our best effort for the participants. A team effort will maximize the scare factor.

Haha... You know, you're right. I've never had this much fun at a training camp before.