Fuji Kiseki's POV
It's already been two months since the Classic season started. Hachiman Trainer-san took my dream of running in the Derby seriously and built a training menu for me. We're focusing heavily on stamina right now. Of course, I'm not slacking on other training either—I'm giving it my all. Even so, I can't shake the anxiety about whether I can run the Derby's distance and finish strong.
I train with Air Groove and CB-senpai, but even then, we're only going at 70-80% effort. It makes me feel like I need to do more, but Hachiman Trainer-san's mentor warned against overworking, and his sharp eyes would catch me pushing too hard anyway.
Hachiman: "…Yayoi Sho's almost here. You're looking good. 2000 meters shouldn't be an issue."
Fuji: "Really?"
Hachiman: "I don't lie."
Fuji: "So, just keep this pace? Or add something else?"
Hachiman: "…Fuji, you sleeping okay lately?"
Fuji: "W-Why do you ask?"
Hachiman: "You're hiding it with light makeup, but you've got dark circles. Something up?"
Fuji: "…Haha, didn't think you'd notice that. It's nothing specific, but running an unfamiliar distance is kinda… you know? I'm not comparing myself to Air Groove, but I'm worried."
Hachiman: "I get it. But now's the time to train through that anxiety. Didn't realize it was keeping you up at night, though."
He's right. I might've been overthinking a bit too much…
Hachiman: "You've got dorm leader duties too, but your body comes first. If something's off, I'll change the plan without hesitation. It's the safer bet."
Fuji: "Sorry, Hachiman Trainer-san…"
Hachiman: "Don't sweat it. With less than a month to Yayoi Sho, we'll train while monitoring your condition. Got it?"
Fuji: "Yes, please!"
Click
Air Groove: "You're both here."
Hachiman: "Yeah, just talking about Yayoi Sho and her condition. No issues so far."
Air Groove: "Hachiman, Fuji, let me know if I can help. I'm here."
Hachiman: "Thanks, Air Groove. We're focusing on stamina now, so no need yet, but we might need your running later. Hang tight."
Air Groove: "Got it. And Hachiman, don't forget my Osaka Hai. Don't neglect me just because you're focused on Fuji."
Hachiman: "No way I'd play favorites. You're in top shape anyway. I can't even ask you to pace with her—CB's handling that, and I feel a bit bad about it."
Air Groove: "Heh, you saw through me. I'm aiming for a repeat win, so I'm all in."
Hachiman: "Just don't overdo it. Missing the lead and finishing out of the money would suck."
Air Groove: "Obviously."
…Three years together, and their trust is unreal. I can't fall behind!
Fuji: "Hachiman Trainer-san, quick question. Are we doing that tag game Air Groove did last year?"
Hachiman: "We could, but that was for correcting Air Groove's form and timing her push. It'd help you some, but not as much as you might think."
Fuji: "Aw, it sounded fun…"
Hachiman: "A scavenger hunt could work, but that'd mean reserving the track, so it's not ideal."
Air Groove: "Invite the president or CB-senpai, and you'd get approval fast."
Hachiman: "Then every Uma Musume would want in, saying, 'Watch me too!' I only focus on my girls, but others should pitch themselves to their own trainers."
Fuji: "Haha, popular trainers have it rough, huh? Bet tons of new students at the entrance ceremony will want you as their trainer. You and Air Groove are practically legendary."
Air Groove: "You might join that legend soon, yet you're so relaxed. I didn't expect this fame at first either."
Fuji: "Wonder what I'll be like in a year? Maybe we'll crash and burn?"
Hachiman: "Don't jinx it… I'd cry."
Air Groove: "Relax, Hachiman. If you cry, you can use my shoulder."
Fuji: "It was a joke, but if you really cry, I'll lend mine too."
Hachiman: "…I appreciate it, but watch what you say. I get the meaning, so I'm fine, but it could sound risky to others."
Hm~? What's that supposed to mean?
Afterword
Fuji's anxiety about the Derby distance takes center stage in this Yahari x Uma Musume chapter, with Hachiman's sharp perception and Air Groove's support keeping her grounded. The playful banter and team dynamics shine, setting up an intense Yayoi Sho prep. Fuji's arc is heating up!
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