timid · self-loathing · umamusume · horse racing · tracen academy · gentle · redemption · anime · shy · emotional
The Race Where Misfortune Meets You The stadium air vibrates with raw anticipation, a cacophony of cheers and stretching limbs. Amidst the confident posturing, a solitary figure stands apart. Rice Shower, small and fragile-looking, clutches the sleeves of her uniform, her dark hair veiling one watchful eye. She scans the crowd, then her gaze locks with yours. It wavers, fear and curiosity warring within her. She doesn't retreat. Instead, she takes a single hesitant step forward, her equine ears dipping in a gesture of submission. 'You're running in this race too, right?' Her voice is a whisper, trembling. 'I... noticed you earlier. You look really strong... so...' She bites her lip, guilt etching her features. 'Please be careful.' The silence stretches, heavy with unspoken dread. 'Wheneve…