Hermes - Need for Speed

Hermes took in the expansive runway. It easily outstripped any length of track he was used to seeing all at once, and the length seemed like something he’d much rather walk. Still though, he felt his flank twitch in excitement. He opted not to go for any of the short sprint competitions, or the relay race, because he knew he’d easily be outstripped by the speedier Runners and more dogged Chasers. But even he wasn’t the strongest puller around, and he focused more on his speed and agility anyway, despite his build. It’s definitely worked out well for him, so far. 

He’ll admit— he’s never had the opportunity to run a marathon, but no time like the present right? He was no Runner, but he counted himself athletic, even if admittedly he hadn’t practiced doing something like this. He was definitely more of a ‘run from a dedicated shopkeeper’ sort of reos, but Hermes appreciated a good challenge. He could at least stay at the top of the pack. At least. 

What surprised him the most though, was to see Bullet of all reos among the crowd of marathon runners. The Vayron was known for her quick paws and sharp reflexes, and few could match her in a head-on race. Let alone beat her. But usually, she preferred sprinting competitions to show off her undeniable speed. But, her stamina was nothing to scoff at, either. 

Hermes knew he wouldn’t get first place when he joined the registration, but he swore he could feel any hope of winning shrivel and die, just then. Ah, well. It was a nice, though tiny, aspiration nonetheless. 

He was still quick to greet the Mender. After all, he couldn’t just ignore the healer who got him through the worst of his training before he set out into the world. She’s healed more than one of his aches and pains of getting into shape, and she’s always been his go-to whenever he had a burning question about how to maximize his speed. Though she doesn’t always respond to his letters, her responses are a wealth of opportunity and knowledge when she does. 

“Bullet! Long time, no see,” Hermes starts with a grin, and cocks his head at her big and bold “003” identifying tag. His was just “056”, but who was counting? He continued on, “I see you’re all ready for the race. Are you going for just third, or gold?”

Bullet answered with a smirk as she looked up at him. “Gold, obviously. Who do you take me for, Hermes? I know it’s been a while, but surely these years haven’t caught up to you quite yet.” 

“Oh trust me, I’m definitely still as lively as ever,” Hermes laughed. “Though I’m excited to see you outstrip everyone. Got any tips for your old student?”

“All you really gotta do is keep a good pace and train your eyes on what’s ahead of you. But don’t feel too bad when I lap ya, alright?” Bullet grinned, and knocked her shoulder with Hermes. “Not everyone can be a running champion like me. But I’ve seen you on the field! You definitely know the right technique to get ahead in the race, Hermes.” 

Hermes snorted. “I’ll take your word for it. If I make it in the top 10, I’ll be sure to note you as my honored teacher, oh great master Bullet,” Hermes bowed in time with his last statement, and felt a curl of satisfaction at Bullet’s answering laugh. 

The announcer’s voice rang through the clearing. “Marathoners, please make your way to the starting line.” Hermes perked up, and hummed in thought. “That’s our cue, Bullet.”

“Indeed it is… Good luck out there, Hermes,” Bullet answered absentmindedly, thoughts already turned towards the race, she walked off toward the finish line without Hermes, and he huffed in amusement. Her one-track mind was something else, for sure. 

But, for Bullet’s sake, Hermes would run a clean race. And when the race finished, and as he was cooling down from it all, taking in his sub-20th place medal… he felt pretty good about himself. 17th place was nothing to scoff at in a lineup of over a hundred land-bound reos.

But of course, it paled in comparison to Bullet’s 1st place medal. But he was alright with that— he doubts he could’ve placed so high without her tutelage, after all.

{732}