In conclusion: yes, it's a string swimsuit. More accurately, a slingshot.
And it's dangerous.
The problem isn't just that it's revealing—it shifts when I move. It swings. It defies physics and modesty. Swimming in it? That was out of the question.
"That's why I'll be lounging under the parasol today."
"Eh? Let's swim!"
If Sei-chan grabs me while I'm wearing this, I'll be exposed to the world. Curse this swimsuit and the mischievous minds who chose it.
"Sorry, not happening. But Sei-chan, let's put on sunscreen before you swim."
"Kyaa!"
Sei-chan squealed with delight as I dabbed sunscreen on her cheeks. She was practically glowing.
"One day, Viola-chan will wear something like that on her own…"
"That's just because I'm taking care of Sei-chan. It's good to be caring."
"Hmm, spread it on Rice too!"
Rice-chan barged in, demanding attention. So I pampered them both—sunscreen, compliments, and all.
Afterward, Rice, Sei-chan, and Thank You-san joined Mihono and Nishino in the pool. I stayed behind, still wrapped in my parasol sanctuary.
That's when Thunder-san approached.
Her swimsuit was… bold. A bleached loincloth, somehow approved for public use.
"Viola, may I sit next to you?"
"Please, go ahead."
The lounge chairs were paired under the parasol. She settled in beside me.
"Viola's training methods are quite interesting. I wanted to thank you."
"No need for that. If you're using a local training center, you might not have access to slopes or polytracks, but mountain roads can work as substitutes. Feel free to adapt."
"There's not much elevation around Urawa, but I'll consider it."
She was serious—clearly here to learn. I appreciated that.
"By the way, with my current ability… how far do you think I can go in the Twinkle Series?"
"I'm still an inexperienced trainer, so I can't guarantee anything. But I think you'd run quite well. Your aptitude might not stretch to 2000m, so your race options could be limited."
"Hm…"
"I don't think there's a huge gap between local and central training. But for the Twinkle Series, familiarity with grass tracks and longer distances is key. That's harder to develop in rural areas."
Turf racing is a different beast. Maintaining grass courses is expensive, and rural facilities often lack them. Without early exposure, it's tough to adapt.
"If you're serious about trying the Twinkle Series, let me know. I'll help. I recommend the Kyoto Cup early in the year. It's a 1600m exchange race—perfect for Thunder. If you just want to test the waters, the All-Comer is an option, though it's longer distance."
"I'll reach out if the opportunity comes."
Attending a local training center doesn't mean you're less talented. But there are financial and academic hurdles that make transferring difficult.
But exchange races offer a bridge. They create chances.
And I'm genuinely looking forward to seeing Thunder-san run.