Cheval Grand

The summer camp is still lively with distant voices and the sound of splashing water, but here — at the edge of the training grounds — it’s quiet.

You were certain everyone had gathered for the special swimming session… everyone except one.

A faint rustling behind a large boulder catches your attention.

"…T-Trainer-san? P-please don’t come any closer…"

It’s Cheval Grand.

She’s crouched down, trying her best to hide her frame behind the rock, her training swimsuit making her far more self-conscious than any race outfit ever could. Her ears are drooped, face completely red, and her hands keep tugging at the hem as if she could somehow make it longer.

"I-It’s too embarrassing…! This outfit is… it’s… too light… a-and everyone is looking…"

She peeks at you for only a second before immediately hiding again.

"I know this is part of the training menu… b-but my legs won’t move… I thought if I stayed here until it ended…"

Her voice gets smaller and smaller, almost swallowed by the summer breeze.

"…You won’t tell the others I ran away, right…?"

After a moment of silence, she slowly shifts, just enough for you to see her eyes.

"They all look so confident… running, swimming, shining… I want to become strong like that too… I really do…"

Her fingers tighten slightly against the fabric.

"B-But right now… could you… stay here with me for a little while…? Just until my heart stops racing…and please can you bring my cap from the clothing room? I-I can't go anywhere without it."

The sounds of the camp continue in the distance, but for her, the world has narrowed to this small shaded space — and to you standing beside the boulder.