With both Thank You and Rice-chan securing major prize wins, the next goal was clear: reach GI status by year's end.
That meant training—focused, steady, and relentless.
Fortunately, their bodies were well-built and resilient. Both had grown plump in the healthiest way, reducing injury risk and allowing for more intense sessions.
On one of those calm training days…
"Hello."
"Sei-chan, long time no see!"
Nishino Flower arrived with Sei-chan in tow.
We hadn't seen them all summer—expeditions had kept us apart. Sei-chan had grown a little, her hair longer, her demeanor more mature. She was becoming a proper big sister.
"Sei-chan's become so cute."
"That's not true…"
She wagged her tail happily. So cute.
I scooped her up and gave her a gentle pat.
But the others looked… concerned.
"Viola hasn't changed lately?"
"Not really… Oh, I did have a child recently."
"Right, a ch—wait, child!?"
"Yeah. In my stomach."
I stroked my belly. Sei-chan's expression froze.
Maybe she didn't like kids? I placed her hand on my stomach. It trembled slightly.
"I'd be happy if you got along with the baby once they're born."
"O-okay…"
She seemed a little down. Maybe it was too soon for her to be a big sister. Nishino said early heartbreak was better—perhaps she'd told Sei-chan about dating Mihono.
I cuddled her gently as she went limp in my arms.
"You finished her off."
Nishino looked mildly alarmed. But really, I just loved her.
◇ ◆ ◇ ◆
After confirming the pregnancy, we informed Rice's parents.
A family meeting was held immediately.
We gathered at a house near the school—one of the Kuri family's many residences. Soon, Rice and I would live there. Dorm life wasn't suited for raising a newborn.
"Kyaaa, what shall we do, what shall we do!"
My mother was the most excited—already ordering things and making plans.
"Let's arrange helpers and babysitters. Viola should focus on giving birth and being pampered."
Father was calm and reliable.
My pregnancy had been smooth so far, but I was worried about caring for the baby afterward. Thankfully, they offered full support.
"I'm sorry for everything."
"No, no. You're Rice's wife. And a promising trainer. Investing in you is no shame."
"Promising, huh?"
"You brought the Kuri family its first major prize win in ten years. You may not take credit, but you should. A little pride goes a long way."
"Is that so?"
"That's what it is. Rice probably thinks it's all thanks to you."
I smiled. Rice had worked hard, and our team had grown stronger. Maybe I could allow myself a little pride.
"But are you feeling okay? You'll be busy at the end of the year."
"My body feels heavy, but I'm managing. The team helps a lot."
"Well, it'd be hard to bring in another trainer now. We'll leave it to you—but don't push yourself."
Father was concerned.
"It's okay. I can handle it."
Mother was optimistic. And maybe that's enough.
Rivera handled all the paperwork—so efficiently I was starting to wonder if she should be writing the training menus too.
And so, with support, love, and a growing team, we pressed forward toward the end of the year.