Hachiman's POV
[Only two G1 races left this year… Who will claim the year-end crown!? The "Empress" who conquered the world!? This year's Tiara Double Crown Uma Musume!? Or the seasoned senior Uma Musume!? Who will seize the Grand Prix!? The year's final showdown, the Arima Kinen… begins!!!]
Announcer: "The year's end is near, and what better way to close it than the 2500m Grand Prix at Nakayama Racecourse—the Arima Kinen! Sixteen fan-voted Uma Musume have gathered at Nakayama today. Last year, Sakura Laurel claimed victory. Who will conquer the stage this time!? Let's start with the Uma Musume introductions!!"
Air Groove drew 6th frame, 12th slot—a solid position, no doubt. But this is her first long-distance race. Even with training tailored for 2500m, the key is whether she can run as planned.
Dyna Car: "The Arima Kinen… brings back memories. I raced it once, but only made the board… How do you think Air Groove will do?"
"No clue," I said. "But if it's Air Groove, she'll deliver a strong run."
Dyna Car: "Hehe, true. Oh, Trainer-san, want to swing by my place after the race?"
I laughed. "I'm fine with it, but it depends if Air Groove's on board. That's the tricky part."
Dyna Car: (Oh, Trainer-san…) "Not necessarily~ Air Groove might be more into it than you think."
"If she is, great," I said. "Oh, Air Groove's up next."
Announcer: "Here comes the main heroine of today's Nakayama main race! 6th frame, 12th slot—Air Groove!!"
Commentator: "You can tell she's been finely tuned for today. First time at Nakayama, first long-distance race, but her usual form is promising."
Announcer: "Among today's contenders, six have G1 wins. This year's Tiara Double Crown winner, Mejiro Dober! Last year's Elizabeth Queen Cup victor, the queen Dance Partner! Last year's Asahi Hai Futurity Stakes champion, Mainel Max! The first-half mile king, Taiki Blizzard! The NHK Mile Cup winner from two years ago, Mainel Bridge! And the undefeated Tiara Triple Crown holder, poised to complete the autumn Senior Triple Crown—Air Groove! The Tiara route's dominance really stands out."
Commentator: "Absolutely. Air Groove has swept nearly all the classic races this year. The only break was her skipping the Emperor's Cup Spring. Recent Tiara route Uma Musume have incredible momentum."
"…She looks in top shape," I said.
Dyna Car: "That's it?"
"What else is there?" I asked.
Dyna Car: "Hehe, maybe it's just me~"
(Dyna Car: That look in Air Groove's eyes when she spotted Trainer-san… Momma gets it~♪ Go for it, Air Groove! If it's Trainer-san, I'm cheering you on full force!)
Waiting Room
"Here we go…" I said.
Air Groove: "Yeah. I'm itching to run. My legs can't stay still…"
"Looks like it," I said.
Fuji Kiseki: "Do your best, Air Groove! I'm cheering you on with all I've got!"
Air Groove: "Thanks, Fuji. So, Hachiman, what's the strategy?"
"Stick to your usual leading pace," I said. "But this time, aim to overtake from a spot where you can pass the front-runners. You can hug the rail, but the leaders won't pull away much, so it might get crowded. Stay mid-track or outside to break through during the race."
Air Groove: "Got it!"
"Good," I said. "Now go out there and win!"
Air Groove: "Leave it to me!"
Air Groove left the waiting room. We followed, heading to the stands.
Fuji Kiseki: "She's got this. Air Groove will win. Let's believe in her and cheer!"
"Yeah," I said.
Hachiman's POV End
Air Groove's POV
"…" I stood ready.
Mejiro Dober: "Senpai."
"…Dober, you're here," I said.
Mejiro Dober: "Yes. I've finally caught up to your back. Now… I just need to pass you!"
I smirked. "I'm being underestimated. You think it's that easy to surpass me, Dober? My back isn't so easily overtaken."
Mejiro Dober: "I know."
"But…" I said, "seeing a junior I've nurtured grow this much and stand with me on this stage… it's deeply moving."
Mejiro Dober: "Senpai…"
"Dober, let's race!!" I declared.
Mejiro Dober: "Yes!!"
Announcer: "And finally, the top two favorites—the old and new queens! Last year's Tiara Triple Crown champion, Air Groove!! And this year's Tiara Double Crown winner, Mejiro Dober!!"
???: "So cool!! That's… that's the strongest Uma Musume right now… Air Groove-san!! She's awesome and so majestic… I want to be an Uma Musume like her!!"
Afterword
The Grand Prix kicks off with a bang, as you noted! Air Groove's fierce resolve and the mysterious new Uma Musume add electrifying stakes to the Arima Kinen. The Yahari crossover fuels Hachiman's quiet confidence and Air Groove's commanding presence, setting a thrilling stage.
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