Rice's Perspective
"How's that, Rice? Any pain?"
"No… it feels wonderful, Big Brother…"
"I'm telling you, Hachiman's massages make your legs feel like they're floating on air," CB added, her own legs swinging rhythmically as she waited her turn.
"Hafuuu…"
Big Brother's massage is incredible. He knows exactly how much pressure to use, and he always finds the spots that need it most. It's so relaxing that my brain is turning into mush—no, I'm past that. I'm basically a puddle on the table.
"I have to agree," Rudolf said, watching from the side. "Brother's technique is impeccable. Its only flaw is that it makes it quite difficult to maintain one's composure and remain silent."
"That's because you're always trying to hold it in, Rudolf," Hachiman noted, his hands never stopping their rhythmic work on my calves. "CB is the opposite; she lets every sound out. But Rice… Rice just melts. You'd think she'd be stiff from all that training, but she's as soft as a cloud. Not that I actually know what a cloud feels like."
"Rudolf, you should just let it out," CB teased. "Holding it in just makes your muscles tense up more, doesn't it?"
"...I believe I'll pass on that suggestion," Rudolf replied, her face a mask of regal dignity.
I really can't imagine the President making those kinds of sounds while getting a massage.
"...Alright, that should do it," Hachiman said, stepping back. "Rice, anywhere else bothering you? If something feels off, don't hesitate to tell me."
"Um… could you do the base of my arms? My shoulders feel a little tight."
"The shoulder girdle, huh? Alright, let's loosen those up."
— A Little While Later —
"I'm back, Rob Roy," I said as I entered our room.
"Oh, Rice-san! Welcome back. Good work with training today." Zenno Rob Roy looked up from her desk with a kind smile.
"Thanks. Weren't you busy with library duty until late today?"
"I was. Actually, Biwa Hayahide-san was there today. She was scouring the shelves for books on strategy—specifically looking for ways to counter your running style for the Tenno Sho Spring."
"Really? Oh… wait, is it okay for you to tell me that?"
Rob Roy smiled gently. "It's fine. After all, I'm rooting for you, Rice-san."
"...Ehehe, thank you."
"Rice-san, why don't we head down to the cafeteria for dinner?"
"Yeah! Let's go!"
Alright! I'm going to eat a huge dinner today!
Rice's Perspective: END
Hachiman's Perspective
"...I never thought the day would come where I'd be sitting in your home, sharing a drink," Taliato said, his voice deep with satisfaction. "I've checked one more thing off my bucket list."
"If your dreams are that cheap, I can fulfill them anytime," I replied, pouring him another glass. "But it's been a while. Not since last year's Tenno Sho, right? You went back to America with the Professor after that to tell everyone about what happened at Tracen."
"That incident wasn't something we could just ignore," Taliato said gravely. "It's why it took me so long to return to Japan. But Hachiman, I was surprised when you told me you'd rented your own place. When did that happen?"
"Ah… sorry. I should have mentioned it. But I'm glad you suggested drinking here instead of at a bar. It's much quieter. I appreciate it."
"Hmph. Don't worry about it. It's the Professor I feel sorry for. If he had come to Japan this time, he could have spent the evening at his grand-disciple's home, talking shop over a bottle."
"Is he that busy?"
"You know how it is. In May, the Man o' War Stakes—named after the Professor himself—is being held. Last year he skipped it to watch the Tenno Sho in person, so this year the Tracen chairmen and the board members practically went on strike to keep him in the States. He finally gave in and agreed to attend as the guest of honor."
"And what about you, Sir? Aren't you the guest of honor for the Secretariat Stakes in August? You went back for it last year, didn't you?"
"You're sharp as ever. Yes, that's the case. However, I made it clear that my attendance is entirely at my own discretion. Though, given last year, they'll probably try to drag me there anyway."
They really are on another level. Even while relaxing here in Japan, they're still the center of the racing world. I suppose that kind of freedom only comes with absolute strength.
Taliato's expression suddenly shifted, his eyes growing sharp. "But enough about me. Let's talk about you and Rice. The Tenno Sho is coming up again. Hachiman… if things go the way they did last year, I intend to recruit you to America."
"..."
"This isn't a new conversation," Taliato continued. "Ireland, France, Great Britain, Germany… then Australia, Hong Kong, Dubai, Turkey, Canada… and of course, the United States. All of these countries want you. The influence you've had isn't just a Japanese phenomenon. The whole world is watching you."
"I'd heard rumors, but… I had no idea I was being scouted by that many countries."
"That's because it's all been happening under the surface. I want you to keep the possibility of a transfer in mind, depending on how this Tenno Sho goes. I'd like to believe that things have changed since last year, but…"
"Me, in America?" I muttered. The idea felt surreal. "So, what you're saying is… whether I stay in Japan depends on the Japanese crowd?"
"Exactly. I will listen to the voices directed at Rice—and at you—and I will make my decision based on that."
"I understand. But please, keep my own wishes in mind too. Don't just drag me away without a choice, okay?"
Taliato gave a small, knowing smirk. "Hachiman, I'm not that much of a tyrant."
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