Rampage's Elizabeth Hai victory brings her total wins to 22, with 12 G1s. Canopus dominates the podium and Winning Live. Ikuno pushed her closest, sparking doubts about any domestic Uma Musume defeating her. Yet, a rumor stirs: "Is Rampage's overseas challenge because she's bored of winning here?"
Baseless gossip, fueled by her selective media interactions—only two publishers get her time. Some speculate she's fed up with local press, driving readers to favor those outlets, while others' sales slump.
"Congrats on the Elizabeth Hai," Flora says, approaching Rampage, sprawled near a great tree at Tressen.
"Thanks," Rampage replies, accepting Flora's genuine cheer despite her rival's quiet loneliness at her twelve crowns.
"Unbeaten record extended. You're unreal," Flora says.
"Getting tired of me?"
"No, you're a worthy challenge."
Like Ikuno, Flora's rare in embracing the fight. Rampage knows she's a daunting foe—Taishin once called her a "secret boss" you'd avoid unless forced, a label she found amusingly apt.
"Japan Cup's mine next," Flora declares.
"Confident, huh? What's up?"
"Can't I just chat?"
"With you, I get chills."
"That's harsh."
"Your track record."
Flora winces, regretting past words—though she stands by them. "Maybe if I got serious, you'd stop flinching."
"You'd give up, but I'd still flinch."
"What do I do then?"
"No clue."
They banter, Flora sitting beside her. Rampage lets it slide.
"Your world record's insane," Flora says. "I can't even touch it."
"If you did, I'd be in trouble."
Tressen's main course, modeled after Tokyo Racecourse, is perfect for Japan Cup prep. Flora chases Rampage's 2:22.0 world record, a mark of her resolve to match or surpass her.
"It's a global challenge," Rampage says. "Not meant to be easy."
"But to beat you, I need to clear it, right? On an open course."
"I get it, but my skill needs pressure to shine. I might not hit that time again."
Flora nods. "I'll just stack records. I can't be you."
"Getting snarky, huh? Straight-laced Flora's gone rogue."
"Losing to you warps anyone."
Her eyes glint mischievously, confirming she's still that Flora. Rampage sighs inwardly.
"So, warped Flora, when's our next clash?"
"Arima Kinen, post-Japan Cup. Realistic, no?"
"Figures."
The year-end Arima Kinen, crowning the fastest Uma Musume, looms huge. Teio, Turbo, Ikuno, Nature, Helios, Ryan, McQueen—and now Flora? An unprecedented festival with four Triple Crown winners.
"2500 too much?" Flora asks.
"Nah, I'm in. No running, got it?"
"Says the one who skipped last year's Arima."
"Wasn't in my rotation, so it's not skipping."
Flora smirks, returning the jab. Rampage grins—year-end's looking wild. How will the odds split?
"Time for food," Rampage says. "Gotta eat a parfait in front of McQueen during her Japan Cup prep."
"That's cruel. If she flops, it's on you."
"Kidding. I'll wait till after."
"Still questionable…"
System: * Today's date and time is 03:27 PM BST on Tuesday, October 07, 2025.
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