Despite the vending machine chaos, I'm ready to observe the final races. It's just watching their running styles, but long-distance demands more—stamina management, leg conservation, and sheer grit to finish strong.
"You can tell just watching, but Rudolf's in a league of her own," I say. "No, not just a league—another dimension."
"You see it, huh?" Air Groove says.
"From what I can tell," I say. "Is that really a self-trained condition? Does she even need a trainer?"
"She wouldn't be racing without one," Air Groove says.
"Just having a trainer's enough?" I say. "That level of polish is insane for anyone to achieve, and she did it alone? Unreal."
"Trainer, the first race is starting," Oguri says. "It's great to hype Rudolf, but shouldn't you prep?"
"Yeah, my bad, Oguri," I say. "Alright, let's do this."
It's long-distance, so every Uma Musume paced themselves carefully. The sloppy ones burned out mid-race; the smart ones saved their legs and still had gas in the tank.
First race, Mejiro McQueen took first. So she's the Mejiro family's princess? Explains the elegance. But that refined air hides fierce drive, stamina, and speed. She's got raw potential—still developing, but scary to think how far she'll go.
Second race was Hayahide. Knowing her, she probably studied every opponent beforehand. That race felt scripted, like she planned it all. Her speed and stamina rival McQueen's, plus she's got theory as a weapon.
Third race was Rudolf. Honestly? No flaws. Nothing but strengths. Her running style works for any distance. Air Groove was right—long-distance is her domain, but she's an all-rounder who'd crush any course. Seriously, she's on another level.
Every race had strong runners, but Rudolf's performance lingers. I didn't expect that speed. No wonder she has a different aura. But… something caught my eye.
"Aw, only second place," Super Creek says. "No first, what a shame…"
"It went as calculated," Hayahide says, "but Gold Ship's late charge was unexpected. I need to recalibrate."
"Rudolf's unreal," Brian mutters. "Couldn't even touch her shadow…"
"Heh, I'm not ready to lose yet," Rudolf says.
Why are all the long-distance familiar faces back at my spot like it's the most natural thing?
"So, Trainer Hikigaya," Rudolf says. "How was my run? Care to share your thoughts?"
"…Not sure if I should say, but do you even need a trainer?" I ask.
Rudolf laughs. "That kind of praise feels good, but you didn't answer. How was my run?"
"From what I saw, the President didn't look off," Air Groove says. "Did she do something?"
"What do you think, Trainer Hikigaya?" Rudolf asks.
Should I say it? They asked, so… fine, I'll be honest.
"One thing," I say. "Why'd you spurt with the opposite leg?"
"!?" Everyone freezes.
"When you spurred, your center of gravity shifted slightly outward," I say. "You moved outside to hide it, right? But you don't strike me as someone who'd waste effort like that. So, what's up?"
Rudolf raises her hands to her chest, clapping with a delighted grin.
"Impressive, Trainer Hikigaya," she says. "I'm floored you caught that. Your observation skills are something else."
"Was it really on purpose?" Rice asks.
"Yup," Rudolf says. "I intentionally spurred with the opposite leg. Thought I hid it well since no other trainers noticed…"
"Amazing, Trainer-san!" Rice says.
"Didn't expect you to catch that detail," Oguri says.
"Even I missed it," Air Groove says. "What a guy."
"This trainer might be something incredible," Super Creek says.
"Hey, Aneki," Brian says. "This trainer…"
"Exceeds all expectations," Hayahide says. "Hard to believe he's a rookie. He's beyond that level."
Stop praising me! I'm not used to this! My poker face is crumbling. If I had ears and a tail, they'd be wagging like crazy.
"Any trainer would notice that," I say.
"No way," Hayahide says. "Even for a contracted Uma Musume, understanding their run that deeply is tough. For an uncontracted one? Near impossible. Even with a contract, it takes time."
"Exactly," Air Groove says.
"But Trainer Hikigaya saw my run that clearly," Rudolf says. "I'm thrilled I put on a captivating show."