Nagoya Racecourse, afternoon, overcast, turf condition: good.
The racetrack, noticeably shabbier compared to the central ones, was filled with a decent crowd.
Though far from packed, it was a significant improvement over the usual half-empty stands.
So, had people suddenly developed an interest in this local track? Or had a recent major renovation made the environment exceptionally appealing?
Clearly, neither.
Nearly a third of the audience were newcomers, all here for one reason: a rookie Uma Musume who had just debuted.
The one who became a legend from her very first race, with a record that was nothing short of astonishing—Margaret Nearl.
The crowd was incredibly enthusiastic about the Nearl they'd read about in the reports, especially the fans from Kasamatsu.
Almost half the spectators today seemed to be from there.
The Kasamatsu crowd was buzzing with excitement, eagerly hoping their local area would produce another hero like Oguri Cap.
Now, all their hopes rested on Nearl.
Just imagine—two years in a row with a local Uma Musume challenging the central circuit? What a story! And as residents of Kasamatsu, they'd share in that glory.
This sentiment was palpable in the stands. The fervent, electric atmosphere even affected two Uma Musume disguised in masks, cloaks, and sunglasses.
"It's truly stirring. Though the venue and crowd size can't compare to the central races, this genuine passion… it rivals anything I've experienced in my own competitions."
"Must you always sound so formal?"
The Uma Musume beside her, dressed almost identically, groaned in complaint.
"Ah… Senpai, it's just a habit, built up over years of literary refinement. I doubt I can change it so easily."
"Alright, alright, I give up. Honestly, listening to you constantly use idioms is exhausting. When we get back, I'm finding a joke book to cleanse my ears."
A bit irritably, the one addressed as 'Senpai' stood up, preparing to leave her seat.
"Senpai? Where are you going?"
The remaining Uma Musume seemed flustered for a moment and quickly asked.
"Don't bother me, Rudolf. Since the race hasn't started yet, I'm going backstage to check on Nearl-chan. You stay here and guard our seats. Don't move them, alright? It'd be a shame if someone took this great spot we found."
With a casual wave, 'Senpai' turned and walked away without a second thought, leaving the other Uma Musume behind.
Their identities were actually quite obvious.
They were two Triple Crown winners who'd skipped their duties today to watch Nearl's race: Symboli Rudolf and Mr. C.B.
Left alone, Symboli Rudolf felt like she was trapped.
As the Undefeated Triple Crown winner, Symboli Rudolf was at the peak of her popularity, practically a household name. If she got recognized, it would mean endless trouble.
On one hand, the swarming fans wouldn't care about her desire for a quiet race day—this wasn't meant to be a fan meet-and-greet.
On the other hand, as the student council president of Central Tracen Academy, as the 'Emperor,' her every word and action carried weight.
If people found out she'd specifically come to watch a rookie Uma Musume's race… she didn't even dare imagine the storm of gossip that would follow.
So, she had to stay put, not daring to make any noticeable movements, terrified someone might discover her true identity.
"I really envy Senpai. She doesn't care about public opinion or scrutiny, she just does whatever she wants, freely."
Symboli Rudolf sighed with envy.
"I can't do that. I bear the responsibility of representing so many Uma Musume. My every word and action must set an example."
"With great power comes great responsibility, I suppose."
Thinking of her senpai's earlier words, a new thought crossed Rudolf's mind.
"Senpai said she'd listen to a joke compilation later? Jokes, jokes… That's a good idea. Maybe I should start reading more joke books too?"
"Whether as a way to relieve stress or to lighten the mood in conversations, jokes could be really useful."
The more she thought about it, the better the idea seemed. Symboli Rudolf made a silent decision.
"I'll start paying more attention to jokes when we get back."
With that thought, her earlier frustration seemed to fade. She sat peacefully in her seat, lost in daydreams about future student council meetings where she'd tell jokes.
As she imagined it, a slight smile crept onto her lips.
Meanwhile, three girls in casual clothes, wearing masks and hats, also entered Nagoya Racecourse.
Needless to say, it was the trio of Dicta Striker, Sakura Chiyono O, and Mejiro Ardan. They'd also sneaked out to come here today.
"Hey, Dicta Striker, are you sure it's okay that we skipped class? This is my first time… I'm a little scared."
Chiyono O, always the diligent student, tugged on Dicta Striker's sleeve, her eyes welling up.
"Aww, what are you worried about? I checked the school rules before we left. It's just skipping afternoon training and leaving campus without permission. We'll only have to write a few-thousand-word reflection. There's no other punishment."
Comfortingly patting Chiyono O's head, Dicta Striker patiently explained.
"And think about it—don't you think this race might be a historic one? A little reflection is nothing compared to witnessing a race that could go down in history. Doesn't that feel like a great deal?"
"Plus, look on the bright side. When we get back, if we beg our trainer a bit, maybe the punishment will be even lighter?"
Finally reassured, Sakura Chiyono O relaxed, her earlier stiffness melting away.
She took a deep breath, slowly exhaled, then nodded with determined resolve, mentally preparing herself to write that reflection.
But just then, Ardan, who had been quietly observing the whole time, raised her hand in confusion.
"Um… didn't you two just ask for time off?"
"…"
"…"
The atmosphere instantly froze. Chiyono O and Dicta Striker's pupils began trembling violently.
"Aaaah! I forgot we could do that!" / "Ardan! Why didn't you remind us earlier!"
Now there were two more heartbroken Uma Musume outside the venue.
A long moment later…
"Forget it." Dicta Striker was the first to recover. She forcefully suppressed her inner anguish and managed a strained smile.
"We're already here. It's too late to contact our trainer now anyway, so we might as well enjoy the show! Let's go! Chiyono O, Ardan."
Taking the lead, Dicta Striker pulled the other two along as they headed inside.
A short while later, another group arrived.
"Mr. Musaka, so this is a local racetrack?"
Trainer Nase asked the elderly man beside her.
--+--
T/N: While I am an inexperienced Translator, I have a Patreon! While it may seem empty as of now, webnovel will get 3 Chapters Every Day, and advanced chapters will be uploaded on Patreon.
It may not seem worth it now, but maybe in the future. Who knows!
[email protected]/AspenTL
If you guys wanna check it out.