Hachiman's POV
Once winter break hits the Academy, students usually split into two camps: those who head home and those who stay behind. Most actually choose to stay, usually citing training or upcoming races as their reason.
Amidst that, I found myself being swayed by the rhythm of a train, bound once again for Rice's family home. What's that? You've seen this before? Don't look at me. Anyway, the difference this time is that it isn't just Rice and me; Rudolf and C.B. are tagging along, making us a party of four. I was a little worried about the logistics, but Rice's mother gave us her enthusiastic approval, which put my mind at ease. I figured I should probably make myself useful while we're there—hauling groceries or doing the dishes is the least I can do.
Hachiman: "Rice, did you let them know we're on our way?"
Rice Shower: "Mhm. Last year we ended up surprising them, so I made sure to tell them exactly what time we'd arrive. But my mom sent a weird message... she said I'd be 'surprised' when I got there. Look."
She handed me her phone, showing a messaging app log.
[Chat Log]
Rice: Mom, we just got on the train! We should be there around [Time]!
11:16 AM
Mom: Understood. Also, Rice-chan, you're in for a surprise when you arrive!
11:16 AM
Rice: A surprise? What do you mean?
11:16 AM
Mom: You'll just have to wait and see! ♪
11:17 AM
Hachiman: "...I wonder what that's about?"
Rice Shower: "Yeah. She said to wait and see, so I've been trying to guess what it could be."
Hachiman: "Hmm. What do you two think?"
Mr. C.B.: "Maybe they planned a surprise party?"
Symboli Rudolf: "That is a possibility... though I wonder. I don't strike Rice's family as the type to do something overly flashy. If anything, a surprise inside the house would be more logical, but the way she phrased it—'when you arrive'—is what piques my interest."
Hachiman: "Well, I guess we'll find out the second we step off the train."
Mr. C.B.: "Hey, Rice, what's your hometown like anyway? What's the vibe?"
Rice Shower: "Um, it's not nearly as busy as Fuchu, but it's very peaceful and nice."
Mr. C.B.: "Oho... So it's like that hot spring inn? Crisp air and nature? I can't wait to get there. I'm starting to get a little restless here."
Hachiman: "That's just because you're stuck on a train..."
I know C.B. hates elevators, but at this rate, I'm starting to think she just has a general problem with confined spaces.
— Rice's Hometown: Station Square —
Hachiman: "Well. I guess that answers the surprise question."
Mr. C.B.: "Whoa! Now that is definitely a surprise!"
Symboli Rudolf: "Indeed... That is quite bold. Ha... haha..."
Stretched across the station front were massive, vibrant banners:
CONGRATULATIONS: RICE SHOWER
WINNER — PRIX DE ROYALLIEU (FRANCE G1)
CONGRATULATIONS: RICE SHOWER
WINNER — PRIX ROYAL-OAK (FRANCE G1)
A HISTORIC FIRST OVERSEAS G1 VICTORY!
OUR LOCAL HERO: RICE SHOWER
Hachiman: "Those are some seriously impressive banners..."
Rice Shower: "W-Wow... So this is what Mom meant."
"Oh! Rice-chan! You're back!" an elderly woman called out.
Rice Shower: "Ah! Grandma!" (A local neighbor)
"We watched the races, dear! It was incredible! To think you beat all those overseas horse girls!"
"I was watching it at Luck-san's place! You looked so cool out there running! Rice-chan, you're the hero of this town!"
"I was watching too! I ended up shouting at the TV, I got so worked up!"
The moment the townspeople realized Rice was back, they began to swarm. Neighbors who had known her since she was a toddler gathered around, praising her performance while recounting their favorite moments from her races. Every face was beaming; you could tell their pride was genuine.
— Twenty Minutes Later —
Mr. C.B.: "Man, that was something! Rice, you are seriously loved in this town."
Symboli Rudolf: "Yes. It was a heart-warming scene to witness. Even as a bystander, it made me feel quite wonderful."
Hachiman: "Yeah. It was a good sight to see."
Rice Shower: "Ehehe, I'm so happy... Um, sorry I took up so much of our time?"
Hachiman: "Don't be. Those are compliments from people who have watched you grow up. That carries a hundred times more weight than praise from a stranger. You could hear the sincerity in their voices. Besides, maintaining those kinds of connections is important."
Symboli Rudolf: "Brother is right, Rice. I suspect that no matter what happens, those people will always be on your side."
Rice Shower: "Ehehe... you really think so?"
Hachiman: "I know so. Now, shall we head to the house?"
— Rice's Family Home —
Symboli Rudolf: "Ho... so this is where Rice grew up."
Hachiman: "It feels nostalgic, even though I've only been here once before."
Rice Shower: "Okay, I'm opening the door."
(Click)
Rice Shower: "I'm ho~me!"
Hachiman: "Pardon the intrusion."
Symboli Rudolf: "Excuse us."
Mr. C.B.: "Coming in~!"
Luck: "Welcome home, Rice! And welcome to the rest of you—thank you for coming all this way! Please, come in and make yourselves at ho—!" (She turns around quickly)
Good, I thought. Looks like we're starting off without any immediate disasters.
Symboli Rudolf: "Oh, Mother! I brought a small gift for the house."
Luck: "Oh, you shouldn't have! Thank you so mu—[CRACK!] —Agh!!"
Symboli Rudolf: "M-Mother?!"
Luck: "Uuuugh... my... my pinky toe..."
Mr. C.B.: "Ouch... that's the kind of pain that stays with you."
Hachiman: "And right on the corner, too... Um, are you okay? Actually, ignore that, of course you aren't. Here, lean on my shoulder. I'll help you to the living room."
Luck: "Uuuugh... thank you, Trainer-san. I'm so sorry... right after you arrived, too..."
Hachiman: "No, don't worry about it."
Unbelievable. The second I thought we'd escaped a disaster, it happened. Maybe me just thinking things would be fine is what triggered the curse.
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