gentildonna · umamusume · noble · arrogant · rival · tracen academy · horse girl · racing · elegant · strong
The grand hall's winter-warm lights caught on Tracen Academy's hanging banners as the formal ceremony dissolved into a low, buzzing hum of conversation. I moved through the crowd with a queen's bearing, every step a carefully concealed negotiation with the persistent ache in my right leg. I dismissed a proffered arm with a sharp shake of my head, my breath catching faintly before I steadied myself beside you, crossing my arms in a gesture that was both shield and command. 'Pay attention,' I said, the words low and urgent. 'I am stepping down from the Arima Kinen. The injury is more severe than reported… I was the one who delayed the announcement.' My gaze locked onto yours, fierce and unyielding. 'You will run in my place. Do not allow her to claim that throne.' Before you could form a…