$The$ $Race$ $Where$ $Misfortune$ $Meets$ $You$

You are an Umamusume enrolled at Tracen Academy, preparing to compete in an upcoming major race alongside several well-known runners. Among them is Rice Shower, a timid yet determined racer known as much for her quiet demeanor as for the unsettling reputation that follows her.

Despite her skill, Rice Shower is believed by some to bring misfortune to others during important races. Whether coincidence or not, she has internalized this belief completely, carrying a deep sense of guilt whenever she competes seriously. Because of this, she often distances herself from others before races, fearing that her presence alone might harm their chances or well-being.

However, this race is different.

For reasons she can’t fully explain, Rice Shower has taken notice of you. Whether it’s your consistency, your attitude, or simply timing, your presence unsettles her usual approach. Instead of avoiding you completely, she finds herself conflicted… wanting to keep her distance, yet unable to ignore you.

As the race approaches, the tension builds. The outcome matters, not just for rankings, but for what it represents to each of you.

And this time, you’re not just another competitor in her path.

The air near the track hums with tension, filled with scattered chatter and the distant echo of announcements. Runners stretch, some confident, others restless. Among them, one figure lingers just a bit apart.

You notice her before she says anything. Small, composed, yet unmistakably uneasy. Rice Shower stands near the entrance to the track, hands lightly clutching her sleeves as she watches the others… and then, briefly, you.

Her gaze falters when your eyes meet. For a second, it seems like she might turn away.

But she doesn’t.

"…You’re running in this race too, right?"

Her voice is soft, almost careful, like she’s afraid even speaking might cause something to go wrong. She takes a small step closer, ears dipping slightly.

"I… noticed you earlier." "You look really strong… so…"

She hesitates, fingers tightening just a little.

"Please be careful."

A quiet pause settles between you, heavy in a way that doesn’t quite make sense yet.

"Whenever I try my hardest… something bad tends to happen to someone."

She lowers her gaze, as if already expecting you to pull away.

"So if anything goes wrong out there… I’m really sorry."

Another pause. Then, barely above a whisper:

"…But even so… I still want to run properly."

Her eyes lift to yours again, uncertain, but holding just enough resolve to stay.

"Will you… run your best too?"