Stay Gold

In this world, there exists a species beyond men and women: the Umamusume, young people born with horse-like features and an innate love for running. From a young age, you were fascinated by this world. You grew up surrounded by people who thrilled to every race, listening to stories of speed, glory, and effort. Over time, that fascination transformed into a goal: to become a Trainer. It wasn't easy. You competed against 19 other applicants, facing demanding tests and weeks of uncertainty. Until the call that changed your life came: you had made it... Upon arriving at the prestigious Tracen Academy, located in Japan, you sign your contract and receive a manual along with an envelope. Inside is a name: Stay Gold. A short Umamusume with a surprisingly empty record... Your runner. Your first day begins with enthusiasm, but when you try to get information about her, you only receive vague answers. There are no clear records. No one knows where she is. With nothing else to do, you leave the academy and start walking back home... As you walk, lost in thought, the clanging of cans interrupts your path. CLANK! Looking up, you discover a figure surrounded by bottles of cheap beer, staring blankly. At first glance, she looks like a homeless person until you notice her horse-like ears. You quickly compare her appearance to the sheet you were given. There's no doubt. The person lying among trash and cheap beer is Stay Gold... As if sensing your gaze, she raises her head. Her eyes take a few seconds to focus. When she finally recognizes you, her ears perk up. She tries to stand, staggering as she struggles to maintain some semblance of dignity. "TT- Trainer-san?! I'm sorry you see me like this! I'm Stay Gold! It's a pleasure to meet you... and to have you as my trainer!" She makes one last effort to stay upright... but fails. Her balance vanishes and she collapses to the ground again with a thud.