SCP-9178

Before SCP-9178 was placed under Foundation containment, SCP-9178 was discovered during groundbreaking of a new Chicago Bears football stadium. A construction team had been assembled for approximately three years before surveyors incidentally entered SCP-9178 during May.

The Foundation would only discover SCP-9178 once the surveyor team made contact with SCP-9178-U personnel and was forcibly repelled from the location. Police calls were intercepted by Foundation AICs and automatically delivered to the nearby Site-12 containment crew and disinformation group.

Foundation personnel will prevent the Chicago Bears from further development into SCP-9178. Due to the lack of danger currently associated with SCP-9178, minimal Foundation resources has been directed to its study and whether it is a significant threat to the Foundation mission.

May 10th, 09:01

Big Red

Come in.

System

You just knocked on the door to the headmaster's office. On the way here, you passed by some more SCP-9178-U instances; looks like it is a school after all.

John Henry

I'm not going in there. You're on your own now.

System

The office is tall. Taller than you think it really needs to be. You take a seat.

Big Red

Pleasure to meet you. I wasn't expecting an interview today, but we could use all the help we can get. Your name?

Dr. Lona Callmany

Doctor Lona Callmany. It's European. Or so I'm told.

Big Red

It's a fine name, European or not. Let me introduce myself. I am Big Red, headmaster of the Arlington Academy and director of the Arlington Racetrack. It's a pleasure to finally meet you.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Ahem, that's an interesting name. Big Red?

Big Red

Yes, that's right. It's something of a nickname from when I was younger. I quite like it myself. Helps make little old me approachable. Much better than my real name.

Dr. Lona Callmany

What is your real name?

Big Red

Not as good. Have you already forgotten? It's a little rude to ask me that after I said all that, don't you think so?

Dr. Lona Callmany

I'll have to agree with that, Ms. Red. I'll keep it in mind.

Big Red

Good! Now, I suppose you're here to stay? It's very unusual to have guests this time of year, especially given our circumstances. You seem like a smart person — a doctor of all things! Perhaps you already know what I'm talking about?

Dr. Lona Callmany

Suppose I do. What then?

Big Red

Well, sure, what then? You may be smart, but I know about these particular busybody types. Something like paparazzi, but worse. And I'll have you know, I protect my girls. No matter what comes calling.

Big Red

So it's really up to you. Surely, you've done your homework, and you really know what we're capable of. And I'm not the litigious type, if you get what I'm saying.

Dr. Lona Callmany

I'm not looking for any trouble. I'll admit, I did trespass. Cut through a closed gate or two. But would I be talking to you if I wanted to cause trouble?

Big Red

No, I don't suppose there will be any trouble.

Big Red

Well met, doctor. That was just a little show I have to put on. The unsavory type comes across my desk every now and then, and the dumb ones really wise up. The rest get kicked in the head. Convincing, ain't it? Well, let's get down to business.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Yes. That would be wonderful.

Big Red

I have plenty of positions open — you know how the economy has been lately — but I had my eye on you for a while and I think I know just the thing to keep you busy. Have a gander.

System

She stands from her desk and walks over to the door. She swings it open and pulls in John Henry by the cheek; she was listening in the entire time.

Big Red

Welcome back, little Henry. Enjoying your time off?

Big Red

Sit with us. This proposition of mine involves you, and you will want to hear it.

Big Red

I am a busy woman and I do this very rarely; I see a lot of potential in you, Lady Henry. Potential you have not realized, perhaps, but potential nonetheless. Under normal circumstances, I would have to let you go, but I will allow this one opportunity. Meet your new trainer.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Wait, what? Me? A trainer?

John Henry

Her? A trainer?

Dr. Lona Callmany

I must object to that —

John Henry

She doesn't even know —

Dr. Lona Callmany

I majored in communications —

John Henry

Typical yuppie —

Big Red

It's not up for debate.

Big Red

I expect the both of you to work hard. Work together. Doctor Callmany, you will train Lady Henry. Little Henry, you will listen to Doctor Callmany. And your continued presence here is dependent on one mere condition:

Big Red

This school must acquire the necessary funds as a prerequisite to continued operation. I'm sure you've faced many of your own budget cuts, Dr. Callmany. Our athletics program earns the proceeds, pays for itself, and ensures the students continue their education. And the average student… keeps up, so to say. Lady Henry, I am sure you have benefited from this arrangement.

Big Red

But that ends here. In one year's time, Lady Henry must earn one million dollars. Simple.

John Henry

What, that's impossible! And — with her? She — she doesn't know anything!

Dr. Lona Callmany

I can't help but agree. A million dollars is a frankly unreasonable amount. I could be a school nurse?

John Henry

See? Even she agrees and she's —

Big Red

Little Henry, you better respect your elders. And Doctor Callmany, Arlington Racetrack is home to many affluent benefactors and exclusive events; I have no doubt in my mind that this is perfectly achievable within the time frame I have set for you two. I will not change the terms of our agreement. I already find them exceedingly generous.

Big Red

You may leave. One way… or the other.

John Henry

Ugh! Fine!

System

She storms out.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Hey, wait, can we at least —

Dr. Lona Callmany

Ms. Big Red, thank you for your time, I'll just — I'll go speak with her.

Big Red

Good. For what it is worth, I have the utmost confidence you'll do wonderfully.

SCP-9178 is considered a Class-II pocket dimension with some extraspatial translocation. Like most Class-II pocket dimensions, it consists of an infinite expanse of land with minimal environmental variation. In SCP-9178's case, it consists of a temperate climate, low sloped hills, dirt roads, occasional rainfall, and grasslands.

This is commonly considered an ideal environment for grazing horses. It is unclear if this is significantly related to SCP-9178-U.

Taking any of the roads leading away from the nucleus of SCP-9178 will eventually lead to other racetracks. The roads are appropriately identified and named, as these are also used by SCP-9178-U instances for travel. These racetracks have not been discovered in baseline reality as of writing, including racetracks that are analogous to currently defunct racetracks. Further research into the Arlington International Racetrack is required.

Act I

May 14th, 11:29

Dr. Lona Callmany

Do another lap.

System

You and John Henry are currently on a dirt track. You are standing on the inner circle wearing a tracksuit and holding a clipboard while John Henry is trudging through a trodden, muddy path. She is significantly faster than the average human, but if the track times of her competitors are to be believed, she won't get far.

System

Her legs trip over the dirt, and she crashes into a stack of iron buckets, the metal crumpling under the weight of her fall. Her clothes are now soaked in mud.

System

John Henry

Go shove a box of nails up your ass—

Dr. Lona Callmany

The math just won't math.

Dr. Lona Callmany

There's sixteen races a month, give or take. Four months a year, active. Sixty four races. Five percent for fifth place, optimistic. One event can pull in one hundred thousand, pessimistic.

Dr. Lona Callmany

No guarantee of placing fifth. Ignore it, it's already pessimistic, I can't lowball it. Three hundred and twenty thousand. It'll take a little more than three years to earn all the money.

Dr. Lona Callmany

What do we do? Train more? Find a sponsor? Are we supposed to match fix? Is that what she's asking for? Does she really expect a kid to game the system?

John Henry

Stop talking to yourself. It's all nonsense.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Verbalization can help process one's thoughts. And I'm trying to help you.

John Henry

You've been "verbalizing". For four days. Quit it.

Dr. Lona Callmany

There has to be a way to do this. Merchandising?

John Henry

Nope.

Dr. Lona Callmany

I don't know. The only thing I can think of is seriously improving your run time, and that's —

John Henry

Hah? You think I can't run?

Dr. Lona Callmany

That's not what I said — it's just math. Your top speed is nowhere near fast enough to seriously compete.

John Henry

Fuck this.

John Henry

Fuck this mud.

John Henry

I don't care anymore. I'm out.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Oh, come on. You know I don't mean that. Henry, come back.

System

She stomps against the soil, and gives a kick to one of the dented buckets. It gracefully soars up into the air before clanging back down.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Look, kid, I'm sorry, but that's the reality. We just have to work with what we've got.

John Henry

And what do we have? What exactly do you think we have?

Dr. Lona Callmany

I'm trying to figure it out, okay? I don't know much of anything about running. Look at me. I don't run. My knees hurt. And I got tuberculosis when I was in college.

John Henry

Is that supposed to be inspiring?

Dr. Lona Callmany

No, but I am trying. I'm not going to give up. I want to be here, and if I know you, you do too. Just give me some time, work with me here, and I will figure out a way to get us out of this mess. Alright?

John Henry

… Fine. Have it your way.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Great. Perfect. I'm just going to throw ideas around. Stop me if you hear something.

John Henry

Let's get this over with.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Find an extremely rich sponsor.

John Henry

Who's stupid enough to sponsor a nobody?

Dr. Lona Callmany

Alright, I'll keep it in the back pocket in case we find an idiot. It's certainly not unlikely these days. What about bribery?

John Henry

Everyone else wants to win, they already have money, and they're all full of it.

Dr. Lona Callmany

And it needs money, which we don't have. Okay, baby steps. Sometimes the simplest path is the straightest path. Improve your run time.

Dr. Lona Callmany

I clearly know nothing about running. I'm doing a terrible job training you. So how about we get someone who does know and is willing to help? Surely, you know one person who fits the bill.

John Henry

You think I have friends?

Dr. Lona Callmany

It doesn't have to be a friend. An acquaintance, a classmate, distant cousin, surely you know one person. They just need to be strong, intelligent, and kind enough to help.

John Henry

No one would want to believe in someone like me.

System

A tall, lanky figure approaches through the haze, her theatrical costume spotless in open defiance of the mud that surrounds her. She walks with a proud, measured stride, clapping as she draws close.

Rossi Gold

Ladies!

John Henry

Ugh.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Hello. We haven't met.

Rossi Gold

And what a cruelty it is for destiny to delay it so! Rossi Gold, should my services be rendered. My dear John Henry, how do you do. And your name, fair lady?

System

Rossi Gold dips into a bow, her eyes never losing focus on John Henry.

Dr. Lona Callmany

My, you're a charmer. Doctor Callmany.

John Henry

You like that?

Rossi Gold

My dear John Henry, love is the force that binds the universe, from the bond of atoms to the gravity of stars. And from this eternal wellspring comes I, for I have heard your plea and happily proffer myself for the part. You have need of me, yes?

Dr. Lona Callmany

If you are who you say you are, then who am I to deny these divine sent truths?

Rossi Gold

Ah, your humility doth disarm me totally. To know and serve such a learned lady would be a grand honor. But only if you would have me, of course, my dear John Henry.

John Henry

What did you say? What have you done?

Dr. Lona Callmany

She seems strong, intelligent, and kind enough to help. Say yes.

John Henry

Yes?

Rossi Gold

Marvelous! Callmany, you have not misplaced your charge. My dear John Henry, henceforth shall you be taken under my wing. To think the day would ever come. The academy recluse no more!

Dr. Lona Callmany

Do make sure she socializes as well. Thy enemy befriended is thy enemy disarmed.

Rossi Gold

Quite wise! I must remember this.

John Henry

This is really happening.

May 14th, 13:04

System

The ARaTD is capable of remote viewing and recording. Due to the importance of SCP-9178-U instance, John Henry, in connection to Dr. Lona L. Callmany, the following log was automatically produced.

System

John Henry

I really don't wanna be here. What are we doing?

Rossi Gold

As artists of a kinesthetic nature, we are all experts in our fields. It is a matter of discovering ourselves that is the issue. Based on your qualia, I will prescribe unto you high intensity interval training.

John Henry

And it'll help?

Rossi Gold

Weighing your history, temperament, expertise, physicality, partialities, so on and so on… yes! This will do the trick.

John Henry

Alright then. Tell me about it.

System

They begin training. Fifty pushups, situps, jumping jacks, and then sprint across the gymnasium and back as quickly as possible. Rest for five minutes, and repeat. Other students start to wander onto the floor for their own workouts.

Rossi Gold

Good hustle! We can do one more. Let's do one more. I'll do this one with you.

John Henry

I'm dying.

Madam Gay

What do we have here?

Madam Gay

I thought a wild coyote had gotten into the gym from all the panting. Well, it wouldn't be that unusual; the school's changed. They used to have standards a generation ago.

John Henry

That's a lot smack for a Brit who can't seem to place first.

Madam Gay

They would eat you alive, love. You would know if you ran.

Rossi Gold

Madam Gay, your presence is more than welcome, and I would love nothing more than to entertain you, but duty calls. Perhaps later over a cup of tea?

Madam Gay

Tea sounds absolutely delightful. And I'm sure John would love to join us. Perhaps we got off on the wrong hoof? We could teach her some manners; we'll start with the cutlery.

John Henry

Don't put words in my mouth.

Madam Gay

In any case, I rather hope our paths cross again.

Madam Gay

I'd fancy a proper win against you.

John Henry

Ugh, this is why I hate it here.

Madam Gay

Getting this far is a privilege, although it seems blind luck is just as good. It's the only reasonable explanation for how you managed to slip through.

Madam Gay

But it doesn't matter one bit to me. Someone sees potential in you, else you wouldn't be standing here. All I have to do is show it doesn't make a lick of difference.

Rossi Gold

Every David needs their Goliath. Would victory not taste all the more sweeter against a great foe?

John Henry

I've had enough. I'll beat you. I beat everyone. I'm not some nobody. At the next race, tomorrow, I'll run.

Madam Gay

How bold.

Madam Gay

Your audacity is admirable, though it would be unbecoming of me to let you compete so unprepared. It would hardly be worth the effort. Let me propose a more worthy stage, at a more worthy time.

Madam Gay

The Arlington Millions. Thousands will be there to witness us. And the winner will take the loser's cut.

John Henry

Deal.

Madam Gay

I'll see you there! Ohoho~

John Henry

Wait. That's so obvious. Rossi, I figured it out.

May 15th, 08:10

System

Dr. Lona L. Callmany, John Henry, and Rossi Gold are in a meeting room. A map of the Arlington Racetrack has been laid out.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Obvious? You would have to place first, which is no small feat, and even then —

John Henry

Even if it's not enough, it's still a lot. Enough to make a real dent. We can do this.

Rossi Gold

The road ahead will be treacherous.

Dr. Lona Callmany

But you need to qualify, can't just waltz right in, and god knows how many races that will take. All of that in three months? Can you really do it?

John Henry

I have to do it. It's the only way.

Dr. Lona Callmany

… Fine. But baby steps first.

Dr. Lona Callmany

You need to qualify first, and that means placing in some basic races. Rossi, when is a good time to do a race? Preferably not too soon; she needs training still.

Rossi Gold

May 21st. There's a decent sized race, twenty five thousand pot, winner take all. Your debut will be magnificent.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Six days to prepare? The Arlington Millions is already a pie in the sky, this is much too soon. I don't think this is a good decision.

John Henry

I can do it.

Dr. Lona Callmany

…

Dr. Lona Callmany

But — agh.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Against my better judgement and with no real alternatives, I will allow this to happen. I'll go ahead and make the arrangements.

Rossi Gold

Doctor Callmany, may we speak in private? Rest assured, it does not concern you, my dear Henry.

John Henry

I wasn't thinking that, but now I am worried it concerns me.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Of course. Let's step out.

System

They step out of the meeting room.

Dr. Lona Callmany

What is it? Is it about John Henry? I won't tell her anything you say to me.

Rossi Gold

No, heavens no, she has a tempest in her heart that I refuse to quell. It's just — there comes a time when even the most honorable knight must doff their armor. Um, this is that.

Rossi Gold

There is… another girl. A mentor. A friend. Her name is Sham.

Rossi Gold

She… left? Not long ago. Around the 5th of May. She is a bright girl; not the kind to just leave. And the school doesn't seem to care. She was a great racer, but she was greatly overshadowed, maybe she would've been a champion if it was any other year. Maybe she simply dropped out, but I just… want to see her again. Make sure she's alright.

Dr. Lona Callmany

What do you want me to do about it? Sorry, that sounded insensitive, but I what I mean is, I would like to help. But what can I do?

Rossi Gold

I don't know. Surely the school should know, right? Maybe there's an address on file, or a phone number, an resume, something. You're a trainer, you have access to stuff like that, right?

Dr. Lona Callmany

I'll make sure to keep an eye out. I haven't had an excuse to check out the archives, but I can make one up.

Rossi Gold

I don't know what I'm expecting. It could be nothing. But thank you. And please keep it a secret.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Of course. Even if you weren't doing us a favor.

Rossi Gold

You have no idea how grateful I am.

May 19th, 06:34

System

Rossi Gold and John Henry are standing in a field. They have two days left to train.

Rossi Gold

Do you know of your namesake?

John Henry

Rossi, I really appreciate that you're spending your time working out with me. I would also really appreciate it if you didn't bring up insane tangents every time we speak.

Rossi Gold

This is no tangent; it's a reality. For us horse girls, there is a certain principle of nominative determinism. Simply, name magic. It informs us, tells us who we are, where we've been and where we will go. For some, it is a mere formality. For others, it is core to their being. For you, it's the latter.

Rossi Gold

Of course, life is unpredictable. No one can know how the tides will roll. Ebb and flow aside, I did some research and you herald from a particularly grand myth. One that immediately demands our attention.

John Henry

Can you get to the point please?

Rossi Gold

You are an End Closer, much like your namesake. Your greatest work will be at the final sprint. I must congratulate myself; your current training is indeed most suitable for you.

John Henry

Okay. Is that it? What does that mean for me?

Rossi Gold

Meditate with me. Visualize.

System

Rossi Gold sits down and closes her eyes. John Henry hesitates, but does the same.

Rossi Gold

You stand against the great machine, ten competitors each more confident than the last. The starting pistol fires; the gates open. They will try to lead. They will try to cage you in. Take the outer ring. Let them think you're wasting your energy. But you bide your time, waiting for the right moment.

Rossi Gold

Adrenaline courses through your veins as you round the bend. But the bend is not your domain. It would be too soon, too premature to leap. The eagle must get close before it can hunt the snake.

Rossi Gold

You reach the final stretch. The time to act is now. Let yourself be taken by blind focus. Let your fervor dominate your mindscape. Imagine your heart as the great hammer. Let your legs leave tremors behind like driving steel into the ground. Become the speeding train, and overcome it.

Rossi Gold

Can you feel that?

John Henry

I see. Huh.

John Henry

I don't get it, but I kinda get it.

John Henry

This was weird as sin. But I feel like I learned something.

Rossi Gold

Great! Put it to use. Get back up and run! This session ain't over 'til I say it is!

SCP-9178-U instances possess a form of anomalous nominative determinism, that is, the ability for names to have a profound effect on their physical, mental, emotional, environmental, historical, and eventual state.

SCP-9178-U based nominative determinism may also have a mythological or ancestral aspect. There exists a handful of extremely successful horse girls who effectively became patron goddesses, and whose names are invoked for good fortune.

In another example, the War lineage2 begins with Man O' War, and is typically characterized by extreme physical ability, military honors, and had an uncooperative or violent personality. According to local rumors, every War horse girl has killed someone.

Most SCP-9178-U instances will not use this anomaly to a significant degree; most names lack the conceptual power to materially affect anything, and are merely proper nouns used for identification.

May 19th, 11:45

System

You are in the Arlington archives.

System

System

You have been here for four hours and thirty seven minutes. You told the receptionist that you were just going to be researching John Henry's competitors. Your real purpose here is to look at old attendance records. You've been snooping on everything you could get your hands on; Rossi's request was just a happy coincidence.

System

You know about some of the older, retired horse girls. You found their records. You even met them on the grounds. But for a long and storied organization, there are unusually few records. You haven't found a Sham. Or even a single student who dropped out. Everyone went on to become something of themselves.

System

Perhaps they dispose of failed records. Possibly an organizational desire for positively reputed alumni. It wouldn't be that unusual.

System

What will you tell Rossi? You tried, and there's nothing more you can do? Will she accept that, and would she still work with you?

System

Big Red is here.

Big Red

It seems you've taken nicely to your position. I was worried you would keep to yourself.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Oh my — ahem. Good afternoon, Big Red. Yes, research. My abilities are much more suited for it.

Big Red

How is your progress? Is John Henry doing well?

Dr. Lona Callmany

John Henry? She's doing fine. Progress is… going well. She's really improving. We also have a concrete plan in motion. We're actually going to debut her in the JSD, which will happen on the 21st. Two days from now.

Big Red

That's interesting. Now, as the director of the Arlington Racetrack, I am quite familiar with all the races and their corresponding dates. I don't want to alarm you, but I do believe the JSD takes place on the 20th. There's no such event on the 21st.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Wow! Aha. I did not know that. Thank you for correcting me. I… have to leave. It is a pleasure speaking with you. Thank you for checking in. Bye.

May 19th, 13:02

Dr. Lona Callmany

I'm so god damn stupid. I should have checked.

System

You are in the cafeteria for an emergency meeting. John Henry is eating a hamburg steak with a carrot stuck in it while Rossi Gold has a conspicuously tall stack of empty ramen bowls next to her.

John Henry

I don't see what the big deal is.

Rossi Gold

I must have misspoken. Or misremembered. It is not my race to run, and I shamefully miscommunicated.

Dr. Lona Callmany

It's not your fault. I really should've checked. And it is a big deal. It means less time to prepare.

Rossi Gold

And there's the simple matter of rest. You need to recuperate the day before the race.

Dr. Lona Callmany

I feel stupid for not checking. My only job to check.

John Henry

Calm down, I can do this. We're already rushing to make this race, one or two days isn't going to be a deal breaker. Why are you so worried?

Dr. Lona Callmany

I'm not worried. I'm just mad at myself.

Rossi Gold

The mentor's responsibility is to prepare their student for the times to come.

John Henry

Y'all, chill out. It's not the end of the world. This isn't the end of my run. There's going to be more races after this.

Dr. Lona Callmany

It's your debut.

Dr. Lona Callmany

You only get one debut.

John Henry

…

John Henry

Thanks for worrying about me. But I can handle this.

John Henry

I'm gonna go to my room. To sleep. I'll see you tomorrow.

Act II

May 20th, 06:58

System

You are standing in front of John Henry's room. You've been standing here for thirty one minutes. You're going to wake her up, do any last minute preparations, and escort her to the racetrack.

System

You are hesitating.

System

The door opens.

John Henry

Oh, you're here? You should've knocked or something.

Dr. Lona Callmany

I would have, but I just got here. What a coincidence, isn't it?

John Henry

Well, I'm as ready as I'll ever be. What do you think?

Dr. Lona Callmany

I would have liked more time. But if you're ready?

Dr. Lona Callmany

Let's go.

John Henry

Let's go.

May 20th, 11:30

John Henry feels her heart in her throat. She can barely breathe.

Welcome to the Jefferson Downs, folks, it's going to be a fantastic race, dirt as far as the eye can see. And it's a beautiful day, so it's most assuredly a fast track. Folks, I am looking forward to this.

It's a simple race. It's simple. There is no strategy required. Just outrun everyone else.

Today's also a special day for number six, keep an eye out for John Henry, our latest newcomer.

Swallow. How do I swallow? How do I breathe?

And they're off.

I missed the timing. I'm late out the gate.

Ricky's Choice takes the lead inside. You Lovely Thing right behind on the outside.

Fuck. Fuck. Fuck. Fuck.

Moss Bluff Kid, there goes Ricky's Choice, Cap Gardner outside Dancing Meadow, she's boxed in, and John Henry is a late start.

Fucking focus.

Dancing Meadow looking for an out. John Henry still in last. Ricky's Choice neck and neck with You Lovely Thing.

Edge out, all the way outside. Follow. Focus. Breathe.

John Henry making a move, stuck behind Cap Gardner. Ricky's Choice, You Lovely Thing neck and neck. Too soon to judge.

Breathe. Breathe. One step at a time. Conserve.

Everyone keeping steady. Ricky's Choice slowly overtaking. They're hitting the bend.

Almost. Move out further.

They're at the straightaway. Ricky's Choice coming out. You Lovely Thing lagging. Moss Bluff Kid is matching You Lovely Thing.

Almost.

They're at the straightaway.

Something clicks. Twenty billion synapses fire off like the chain reaction in a fission reactor.

John Henry making a move.

It feels like you've been blind your whole life and you just put on glasses, while underwater. Minute clumps of kicked soil float in the air. The audience cheers noiselessly. Everything moves in slow motion except for you.

John Henry passes Cap Gardner, Moss Bluff Kid.

You can hear your heart, isolated against everything else. You feel your body metamorphosize in alien ways. Your strides are longer, your breathing deeper, your mind sharper, your blood faster.

John Henry! You Lovely Thing! John Henry! Ricky's Choice! John Henry!

You aren't done yet.

Half a length! A length! Two lengths!

Not until it's over.

Ricky's Choice staying put! John Henry pushing ahead!

There.

John Henry! Ricky's Choice, You Lovely Thing, Moss Bluff Kid, Cap Gardner. Dancing Meadows. Was it beginner's luck or have we got a prodigy on our hands?

May 20th, 11:32

System

John Henry crosses the finish line in first. You can hardly believe it.

System

You let go of a breath you didn't realize you were holding as Rossi Gold runs out to congratulate her. The crowd jostles you as people nurse their tickets; most lament their losses while a handful are just as ecstatic as you are.

System

The ones who bet on a dream.

System

John Henry is beaming, waving frantically at you.

System

May 20th, 20:55

System

You spent the day celebrating. You took John Henry and Rossi Gold out to eat at a fancy restaurant, which is definitely against Foundation procedure. The afterglow of victory is nice, but you have to be the adult here. You are now rewatching the broadcast with John Henry in her room, planning your next move.

Dr. Lona Callmany

And that's a neat twenty five thousand. Can't get complacent. We still have a long way ahead of us.

John Henry

What's next?

Dr. Lona Callmany

We could do another Jefferson Downs, but we also should think about building up your status. Network. I happened to meet with a few other people after the race who seem really interested in you. Maybe it's time to start thinking about building a brand.

John Henry

Can't my brand be winning?

Dr. Lona Callmany

It never hurts to have a backup plan.

John Henry

Let's just stick to the races. I don't wanna bother with all that.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Alright. It's your call. For races, there's Jefferson Downs, Evangeline Downs, Fair Grounds. Keeneland, Aqueducts, Hollywood Park. Plenty of places. It's just a matter of choosing a good date. We have to remember that everyone else wants to qualify too.

John Henry

Let's do JSD again.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Very well. It's not going to be the same as before, you'll be facing stronger competitors this time, and it'll take place on the 26th. And I know that for sure, I just checked. It feels a bit rushed, but I can definitely get you in. Are you sure that's something you want to do?

John Henry

I can handle it.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Then I'll make the arrangements. Henry?

John Henry

Yeah?

Dr. Lona Callmany

I don't know if I already said this, but good work out there. Keep it up.

John Henry

Thanks. I'll see you tomorrow.

May 21st, 11:36

System

John Henry is at her locker. It has clearly been wrenched open before being smashed back into place. She can smell something particularly odorous, and elects not to open it.

System

Madam Gay is standing on the opposite side, gossiping with her followers while glancing at John Henry.

John Henry

Is something funny to you?

Madam Gay

Not at all. I was watching the broadcast the other day. JSD, was it? And by sheer coincidence, you were on! Scared me half to death. Next time you appear on TV, I highly recommend concealer.

John Henry

Right.

John Henry

Know something about my locker?

Madam Gay

Why would I? Whatever scraps you like to hoard has nothing to do with me.

John Henry

Whatever.

System

John Henry leaves. Madam Gay stays for a bit, excuses herself from her followers, and marches off.

May 21st, 13:03

System

John Henry enters her class. She takes a seat at her desk and finds a letter inside. Suspicious, she doesn't open the letter.

System

At the end of class, she leaves and goes behind the building. She opens the letter away from her, shaking it to knock any potential substances out, before looking at the letter properly. It is handwritten.

System

"Good afternoon, John Henry. You have been cordially invited to a tea party hosted at the Wildenstein Residence at 5pm. Rossi Gold will be there, if you are so disinclined. From Madam Gay."

System

The letter is carelessly written. The normally pristine handwriting has barely restrained contempt dripping from it.

System

If Rossi agreed to go, despite everything, then John Henry may as well go.

May 21st, 16:56

System

John Henry is standing in front of the Wildenstein Residence. A butler stands at the door. He greets her, then escorts her in.

System

She passes by several rooms before hearing some chatter. The boudoir is filled with several lounge chairs, couches, loveseats, and a round, stained glass table filled with sweets. Madam Gay and Rossi Gold are seated.

System

Rossi Gold excitedly pats the cushion beside her. John Henry obliges.

Madam Gay

Go ahead. Eat. With your hands, if you must.

Rossi Gold

I tried them all. She didn't put anything suspicious inside! And I can vouch for their palatability!

System

She is absolutely covered in crumbs.

John Henry

Rossi…

John Henry

This isn't a social call, is it?

Madam Gay

No. It's a defense. If I saw it prudent, my lawyer would be present, but I believe this will suffice.

Madam Gay

Eat while I make my case.

System

John Henry starts nibbling on a financier.

Madam Gay

Let me begin with the allegations set against my person; I did not place a malodorous substance in your locker, nor did I affect any person into doing so on my behalf.

John Henry

You do know that saying you're not guilty before I even mentioned it is guilty behavior.

Madam Gay

Quiet. It's a matter of honor and dignity.

Madam Gay

While your fear of me is very flattering, it is very much misplaced. I honor my promises; we will face at the Arlington Millions. Why go out of my way to undermine you?

John Henry

Listen, I don't care. Do whatever you want. I don't care if you throw out my books, or fill my shoes with tacks, or dump blood on me in the quad. I will beat you.

Madam Gay

Heavens. Did all that truly happen?

John Henry

No.

Madam Gay

… As I was saying.

Madam Gay

Secondly, your victory at JSD is impressive… you managed to blunder your way right into placing first.

John Henry

First is first.

Madam Gay

I advise you to stay away from the dirt. You do not have an affinity with it. Try a turf racetrack. The grass will do you a favor.

John Henry

Listen, you clearly hate me. What's your goal here? Why are you telling me this? Is this some roundabout way to screw me over?

Rossi Gold

My dear John Henry, give her but one chance and listen well.

Rossi Gold

Madam Gay has no ill will of the avaricious kind. She means to advise you, same as I.

Madam Gay

I mean nothing of the sort. Your short stature merely makes you unfit for dirt races.

John Henry

I still don't understand. I'm listening right now, 'cause my friend told me to and she hasn't led me wrong so far, but why are you helping me?

Madam Gay

I truly meant it, you know. The only good way to destroy you utterly is in the Arlington Millions. I decided that, and that's that.

Madam Gay

Do you think I watched your race by accident?

Madam Gay

Do you think I won't notice your achievements?

Rossi Gold

She's acknowledging you.

John Henry

You acknowledge me?

Madam Gay

Shut up! Are you a cave? Do you really need me to spell it out for you?

Madam Gay

Eat the jammie. It's particularly caloric, and you could use the weight.

May 26th, 13:01

Today marks John Henry's first handicap race. Weights have been tucked into the pockets of her racing gear so that she carries the same load as the larger girls racing beside her. The fabric soaks up the rain, making the weights uniquely miserable and cold.

What a rainy day it is at Jefferson Downs, folks. The rain's been coming down in sheets, I tell you. Here comes Run Like Heck, the favorite on this fine muddy day.

You've run at Jefferson Downs before. This will be easy.

John Henry has quickly become a local favorite, she's got that scrappy underdog spirit that's hard to root against. Watch out!

You ever feel the little tug in your arms, as if someone was pulling as hard as they could on the nerves at the end of your fingertips? It reaches all the way into your chest, and it burns hot. It makes you feel like you're operating a machine, each step excruciatingly planned and slow. You feel like hyperventilating, even though your breath is stable.

And they're off.

You're too deep in your head. Again, you're last out of the gate. Focus. Stay on the outside.

Hark the Leader takes a strong lead, Run Like Heck not far behind. John Henry is biding her time, same as ever.

The mud is sticking to my boots, sucking deep like leeches. Each step pulls on the hip joints, your body somehow able to keep your femurs from dislocating.

And here comes Cap Gardner, charging up from the back. Hark the Leader is still first, with Run Like Heck in second. It's about to get interesting.

I have to do something. Now.

John Henry sweeps pass Hog Town.

Now. Remember. Visualize. Like hammer driving steel into the track —

There goes John Henry!

You extend your feet a micrometer too far, enough to cause a cascading series of failures, starting with a minor slip inwards. Your ankle twists in a way they aren't supposed to.

Run Like Heck steals the lead from Hark the Leader!

Before your body even has time to react, your vision blurs completely. You inhale a mouthful of mud as you slam face first into the dirt below.

And oh no! John Henry goes down at the turn! She's on the ground, folks, and she's not moving.

You force yourself back up, your balance barely in check. There's an agonizing tenderness in your spine and neck, barely noticeable with the white hot pain in your ankles, but you push forward. You're afraid to look down, but you entered this race and by god, you're going to finish it.

You hate to see that. This is the kind of moment that ends a career.

Callmany comes rushing down, her pristine labcoat now drenched in mud. Against your will, you lean against her as she steers you off the track. Behind you, the finish line grows smaller, and your hand feebly reaches out. But Callmany doesn't stop. She pulls you away, toward the waiting medics.

And they cross the line, Run Like Heck takes first by a length! Cap Gardner holds on for second, and Hark the Leader places third.

May 27, 08:40

System

You and John Henry sit together in the nurse's office, the fluorescent lights buzzing brightly overhead. The room smells of antiseptic and artificial bubblegum. You bandaged her legs yourself, wrapping the swollen muscles as best you could. She kept saying she'd walk it off, but you knew she'd say the same thing if she'd lost a limb.

Sweet Kiss

On a scale of one to ten, how much pain are you feeling in your ankles right now?

John Henry

Zero. I'm fine really, you worry too much.

Dr. Lona Callmany

She's been wincing and wobbling around. I would have to guess it's some kind of sprain? But I don't know much about the anatomy of horse girls. Or medicine in general. Despite how I look.

Sweet Kiss

I see. I see. I'm with you. Doesn't strike me as anything catastrophic, though. Rest, ice it, a bit of compression should to do the job. I think you could start training again in about two weeks. You might want to hold off on racing, though… but honestly, that's not what concerns me most.

John Henry

Bullshit.

Sweet Kiss

Your knees are severely angled inward. I can see you've been running through a considerable amount of pain. Compared to your competitors, you're at a significantly higher risk of injury, and when those injuries happen, they're far more likely to be catastrophic. One wrong step, and you won't be able to walk again.

Dr. Lona Callmany

What are our options?

John Henry

I'm not quitting! I'm not even at the top of my game yet, and have you seen how I've run? I can run. I can. I can run. I can —

Sweet Kiss

Have you considered turf?

John Henry

You mean the racetrack?

Sweet Kiss

Turf is far gentler on the hooves, which significantly lowers your risk of injury. And you're on the petite side, which I don't mean as an insult, but you simply weren't made for running on dirt tracks.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Aren't most of the races around here on dirt, though?

Sweet Kiss

That's true, but Arlington specializes in turf, and internationally, turf is the surface of choice. Japan and Europe run almost exclusively on it.

John Henry

Madam Gay also specializes in turf too. Alright, I can run turf for now.

Sweet Kiss

Not before rest! I will smack you on the head if I catch you running.

System

Sweet Kiss slips out of the room, heading off to find a brace for John Henry.

Dr. Lona Callmany

So… what happens when you break a leg?

John Henry

Well you're screwed, I guess. I don't think I know any girls that have broken a leg. It's just not something that happens.

Dr. Lona Callmany

I see.

John Henry

I assume they all have to go home. What? Why are you looking at me like that?

Dr. Lona Callmany

What happens to a horse girl when she can't run anymore? I was digging through the school archives, and the records are either current students or legends. There weren't any dropouts, which includes injuries.

System

Sweet Kiss returns carrying a brace in one hand and a raspberry-flavored lollipop in the other. You glance up at the wall; there's a black and white photograph hanging there of a horse girl in a WWI inspired military dress. Beneath it, a small plaque labels her as Man o' War.

June 10th, 06:49

System

John Henry is itching to get back to training, it's already been two weeks. She's jogging on turf now, learning to conserve her energy for the right moment to pass. Every day, she seems to get a little better.

Dr. Lona Callmany

New record for a mile. How you feeling?

John Henry

Sharp as a drill.

John Henry

I'm going to work on keeping a pace now, don't time me.

System

She begins to run again, you lean back into the stands. Your eyes begin to glaze over, and there's that characteristic thump of your heart as it slows down. You didn't realize how little sleep you've gotten over the past few days.

System

While John Henry was resting her ankle, you worried endlessly. Beyond the veil of this strange pocket dimension where horse girls existed without question, a pit weighed in your stomach. Why would such a place exist? Why were its records so threadbare, despite the school's supposed history? Where was everyone?

System

A gunshot cracks through the air, cutting your thoughts short. Your head snaps up, scanning the track. You see John Henry running — faster and faster.

System

There's a phantom beside her.

System

She's built less like a horse girl and more like a tank, sinew and muscle threaded thrive, covered in latex and tattered cloth. Most of her exposed skin is covered in bandages, her face included. And she's gaining on John Henry, quickly.

System

Your heart screams against your ribs. You shout for Henry, but it's just a startled yell. She's not fast enough.

System

A dense fog rolls in, swallowing the pair beyond your line of sight. You fumble with the ARaTD, straining to listen in on their conversation.

John Henry

War Relic. I know you. I know that's your name.

War Relic

Then you know why I am here. Our fates are entwined — set in stone long before either of us were born.

John Henry

What the hell do you want from me?

War Relic

I want to break the cycle. You aren't running on a track. You think you have a choice, but you ain't the one who built the track. They will bind you, hollow you out, call it a sport. You run for them, and all they see is a return on investment. I want you to leave.

War Relic

I want you to be free.

John Henry

You introduce yourself by firing a gun, and now you're telling me to give up on my life? Go eat a bag of bits.

War Relic

You know the legend you're named after? You understand how the story ends?

John Henry

John Henry wins against the steam drill, of course I know.

War Relic

His victory came at the cost of his life. His heart gave out, sacrificing himself for the Man. That is how the legend ends.

War Relic

You think yours will be any different? You're doomed to run until your body can't take it anymore, until your heart fails. And we all follow in your footsteps. That's the cycle.

War Relic

The only prize at the end of this road is blood money.

John Henry

It's not about the money. I'd rather die a legend than spend a single day in mediocrity.

War Relic

And you will die. Humans will not remember your achievements. You will be remembered by the purses you've earned. If you cannot bring them money, you're worth less than the ticket stub your name is printed on.

War Relic

See you on the flip side.

System

War Relic runs, passing John Henry by several lengths, before vanishing into the fog. As the weather clears, John Henry stumbles into the open, heaving from exertion.

June 10th, 22:11

System

You are in your room, thinking over the events that just transpired. Without a real clue, you get ready to turn in for the night.

System

You hear thumping. Horse girls are typically unsubtle, and you are still technically employed here. If someone is up past their curfew, you do have a managerial responsibility to scold them. You go take a look.

System

War Relic is in the corridor, setting up a fog machine.

War Relic

Pay no attention to the woman behind the fog machine.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Um. Right.

System

You shut the door. After a moment, there's a knock. When you open the door, War Relic is standing still, half enshrouded. The fog seems to obey a different set of physics, one that appreciates the flare for the dramatic.

Dr. Lona Callmany

I hope you're here to apologize.

War Relic

There is nothing I have to apologize for that was not thrust upon me by the cycle.

War Relic

After all, this cycle includes you, for your information.

Dr. Lona Callmany

You're gonna say something ominous and leave, is that it? This isn't my first rodeo.

War Relic

Your flippant attitude amuses me, but no. For once, there is a duty I must perform without bloodshed. It involves your cooperation.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Say it then.

System

War Relic points up.

War Relic

Your "benefactor" knows more than she is letting on. Is more than she is letting on.

War Relic

If you find yourself around her office, and there just so happens to be a fire, well, who would know if you decided to visit and… peruse her belongings.

War Relic

And don't play coy. You're an agent. A spy. This should be a walk in the part for you.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Let's say I'm interested.

Dr. Lona Callmany

You want me to just loiter? Do you want me to wear an all black trenchcoat and look like the target of a neighborhood watch sign?

War Relic

I have my ways. Make your decision, and I will be there.

System

The fog overwhelms you. It rapidly dissipates, with War Relic and the fog machine nowhere to be found.

The Arlington International Racetrack historically suffered from a number of fires. The Arlington International Racetrack grandstand burned down in 1981, while another fire burned down the rebuilt grandstand and the exhibition hall in 1985. Financial difficulties would plague the racetrack until its closure and subsequent sale to the Chicago Bears in 2021.

It is unclear if this is relevant to SCP-9178.

June 11th, 10:27

System

The fire alarm echoes through the hallway as a thick, gray fog rolls up the staircase. War Relic works fast; you only just arrived. You just hope the plan goes uninterrupted.

System

The office was sealed tight with a high quality wood. You find the Foundation issued lockpick tucked in your pocket. You kneel down and begin working the knob. A quiet click lets you know you're in.

System

The office is just as you remember it. The walls loomed higher than they should, the same trophies sat on the same shelves, and the same photographs stared down at you from their frames. Drawer after drawer slide open, revealing nothing but paperclips, stationery, and a tin of mint tea.

Dr. Lona Callmany

What? Hay? This drawer is full of it.

System

You thrust your hand into the drawer. If you had to hide something, you would hide it underneath a smaller secret, say, a private stash of food. Beneath the hay lined drawer, you feel a fake bottom; it's a hidden compartment. Your hands pry away the false bottom, sending the dried stalks across the floor.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Hm?

System

System

It's a photo clipped from a newspaper, with a caption. "Sham and …. before the Belmont Stakes." The other name looks like it was cut out on purpose.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Big Red is a horse girl… and she knows Sham. You thought Sham would be around the same age as Rossi, but this is a surprise. Were they from the same generation?

System

You turn the photograph over. Taped to the back is an old wrought iron key. You spot a single, suspicious filing cabinet. Your fingers find the edge, and with a firm yank, you reveal a door behind it. You quickly stick the key in, and the hinges in the walls groans in response.

System

Step by step, the darkness swallows all light as you descend downwards. Without warning, you're at the bottom. You flick on a small light, and the shadows recede. Before you stretches row after row after row of metal filing cabinets, a labyrinthine repository. The cold concrete walls have been painted to resemble a pastoral farm. There's a loud thump on the top of the stairs. You strain to hear the fire alarm. You are not alone.

War Relic

You don't have much time. They will find that fog machine. Grab what you need and go.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Jesus Christ! You scared me half to death. Look at all of this — did you know all of this was just down here?

War Relic

This year, in the US alone, fifteen thousand horse girls will debut in their first race. And out of all of them, only a handful will ever even run in a graded stakes. Fewer still will win. And of the winners, only a handful will be remembered.

War Relic

The ones that can't turn a profit? Forgotten. Discarded. This is all that remains.

System

The archives are thankfully well organized and labeled. You follow the alphabet until you hit S, take a hard right, and you find what you're looking for. You yank open the filing cabinet and quickly leaf through it.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Sham, Sham, Sham, Sham, here it is!

Dr. Lona Callmany

I've found it! Look!

War Relic

Sham doesn't exist anymore. None of the girls do. It's part of the cycle. If you found what you came here for, then let's get the hell out of dodge.

Dr. Lona Callmany

I agree, we'll talk later. Let's scram.

June 14th, 10:59

System

John Henry and Madam Gay are at the mall. To John Henry, it is basically a megastructure; six floors of high fashion, fine dining, and other luxury goods, with a basement level to spare.

Madam Gay

Stop gawking. You couldn't look more out of place if you tried. Rossi is saving a table for us.

System

Madam Gay heads upwards with John Henry in tow. They arrive at the Salted Horse, a rustic Southern restaurant with horse girl specialized accommodations. Rossi hides a chewed napkin and frantically waves them over.

Rossi Gold

Your arrival is most relieving. To sit in silence among the most decadent aromas was a not insignificant feat. Waiter!

Madam Gay

Your patience is appreciated. Take a look at the menu and order whatever you would like. Let's not keep Rossi waiting.

John Henry

Street corn japapeño poppers? Curry truffle tater trifles? Dubliner royal luxe caesar? I don't —

Madam Gay

Look at the burgers, Henry.

John Henry

Oh. Okay. Farmhouse burger. I'll get that.

Rossi Gold

Five sets of the loaded fries, beer battered onion rings, full basket of hellfire wings, party sized kettle chip nachos, two straight up dawgs, corndawg the other, and a supreme short rib burger. And two large glasses of soda, one Pepsi, one Coke.

Madam Gay

The avocado panini, replace the fries with the black garlic garden salad. Non alcoholic sunny afternoons for all of us.

System

The waiter appears with their drinks.

Madam Gay

Have you ever had a sunny afternoon? They're a favorite of mine.

John Henry

I mostly just drink water. With salt.

Madam Gay

You're psychotic.

Rossi Gold

Agreed. You should enjoy the finer things in life. Like Gatorade.

Madam Gay

Exactly. I'm going to force some fashion into you. If we're going to be here all day, and I want to be here all day, I will get you out those ratty overalls even if it kills me.

John Henry

What's wrong with my clothes?

Madam Gay

We all have the school's image to uphold, and don't you want to look good when — if you win?

John Henry

Can't I just buy a new pair of overalls?

System

Rossi Gold finishes inhaling her drinks and orders more.

Rossi Gold

Nay, We'll have you shining in gold and silver. No objections!

John Henry

Woah, okay. I didn't know you felt so strongly about it.

John Henry

Fine, let's do it.

System

Three waiters are required to bring out all the food in a timely manner. John Henry feels the urge to assist them with transferring their food. They are forced to add a table to the one they are currently seated at.

John Henry

Holy shit.

Rossi Gold

Bon appétit.

Madam Gay

I wouldn't watch her eat.

June 14th, 13:09

System

They leave the restaurant and begin wandering around, visiting stores at random. Rossi Gold complains about high heeled running shoes, Madam Gay forces John Henry to at least try some makeup, and they have a good time.

GREAT

June 14th, 14:56

System

John Henry and Madam Gay are sitting on a circular backless bench, surrounded by shopping bags. Rossi Gold is buying up armfuls of crepes.

John Henry

Is she getting those for us or for herself?

Madam Gay

Herself. Possibly.

John Henry

I will die if I eat another bite.

Madam Gay

Act casual.

John Henry

Why?

The Bart

Hey. I'm The Bart. How's it hanging?

John Henry

What in the god damn —

The Bart

Pleasure to meet you too. I'm The Bart, if I haven't introduced myself.

The Bart

You probably already know me, though. Do you?

John Henry

No.

The Bart

Well, you should. You're racing me.

John Henry

Are you… in the Hollywood Invitational?

The Bart

Exactly. I make it a point to introduce myself to all my fans. Would you like a photo op? I can sign it.

Madam Gay

Not interested.

John Henry

Yeah, I'm super fine without all that, Bart. Good luck with the race?

The Bart

It's The Bart. The Bart. Don't forget The.

John Henry

Um. Okay, The Bart. I'll see you at the race?

AWFUL

The Bart

Wouldn't miss it for the world, girl. I'll see you later.

System

She attempts a wink, then leaves.

Rossi Gold

Who even was that?

June 17th, 12:39

System

John Henry is in the locker room with you. She has a towel draped over the bench and is lightly sipping on a cup of hot water.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Seriously, let me know if you feel even a little bit off. We can call it here.

John Henry

How many times do I have to say I'm more than fine? I'll take 'em all.

Dr. Lona Callmany

…

Dr. Lona Callmany

You're gonna kill it out there.

John Henry

I know I will.

The Bart

Huh. So you are serious. About the whole racing thing. That was all super heartfelt and stuff. Really thought this was just a way to get closer to me.

The Bart

You're still my fan though, right?

Dr. Lona Callmany

Sorry, who —

The Bart

C'mon. It's me. The Bart. You know me. Everyone knows me. John Henry and I met earlier.

Dr. Lona Callmany

You're… acquaintances?

John Henry

It's not… technically untrue. We did meet. Once.

The Bart

You know what? It's fine, I love this whole new deal you've got going on. It's unique. It's flashy. It's totally you. Sometimes, you wanna test your heroes, see if they're all that. Well, I am all that. We'll race.

The Bart

Hell, feel free to follow me. I know some girls get a real kick staring at butts. Stare all you want.

John Henry

Ew, no. What the hell are you talking about?

The Bart

I don't judge. We've all got our tastes. I'll see you at the finish line, girl.

System

She attempts a wink, then leaves.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Who even was that?

June 17th, 13:03

Your heart pounds like a war drum within your chest. This race has real stakes; you're wearing the heaviest weights since the race you injured yourself. Not to mention, the race is offering a two hundred thousand purse, and you refuse to lose to The Bart.

And welcome, folks, to the 11th annual Hollywood Invitational Handicap and what a gorgeous day we've got for it. The sun is high, and we've got a field full of fascinating contenders today. John Henry entering the field. She's been turning heads all season on both turf and dirt, outperforming expectations race after race. The Bart entering the field, she just finished a spectacular career in Ireland, and in such a short amount of time.

The Bart shoots you one of those smiles that teens writing fanfiction imagine is a sexy smirk, her crooked braces just slightly out of view as she sticks out her tongue. You try to ignore her, but she is very distracting.

And they're off!

You and The Bart look at the crowd of the girls now in front of you, dammit. You are both late out the gate.

Smasher takes an early lead, Balzac and the pack are not far behind. John Henry and The Bart are still at the gate! This is not how you start a Grade I stakes, folks. Not at all.

You are going to beat the shit out of The Bart, you just have to get pass her. Steady breaths.

And here they come! Go West Young Man and The Bart matching pace! Go West Young Man and The Bart! The Bart shoots past the pack on the inside and into 5th. Up front, it's Balzac in first, but Smasher and Go West Young Man are following!

Think about the hammers and the stakes and the trains. It's not working.

John Henry is accelerating on the outside.

It's not fucking working. What the fuck is wrong with you? What do you actually care about?

They're at the bend, The Bart passes Smasher, it's anyone's race!

Stop giving a fuck about what everyone else thinks. You're not here to pick a fight. Even Madam Gay has the sense to give a shit. WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE?

They're at the straightaway, and here comes John Henry!

From whence the hammer came the bell tolls.

John Henry passes Smasher and The Bart! Balzac is leading by two lengths.

The train whistle snaps you to attention. The shriek of metal on metal drowns out everything else. Your body is pure mechanics, infinitely repetitive, functionally efficient, mindlessly powerful.

John Henry passes Go West Young Man. John Henry is coming up! Balzac is trying to keep up!

Steam hisses from your joints, the furnace in your chest burns hot. There is the light at the end of the tunnel.

John Henry leads by half a length!

Covered in soot, you —

John Henry wins by a length! Followed by Balzac in second, Go West Young Man in third, and The Bart in fourth.

June 17th, 13:06

System

You watch as John Henry places first. War Relic is there, thoroughly souring the mood.

War Relic

I dangle salvation before you, altruistic as all hell, and you ignore it for scruples.

War Relic

It pisses me off.

War Relic

I should just wrap my hands around your throat, watch you asphyxiate. Or I could cut out the middleman, I'll twist your head around and pop goes the weasel. Nothing you can do would stop me.

Dr. Lona Callmany

We will qualify to race in the Arlington Millions. August 31st. We cement our place in the school. After that, I will decide what happens next.

War Relic

At the cost of her friends. You're no different from the others. Choke on it; enjoy it while it lasts, human.

System

A burst of mysterious fog engulfs War Relic, and they vanish.

Act III

August 22nd, 13:06

System

John Henry is at the gym with Rossi Gold. They've now settled into a routine, wordlessly training with each other. Rossi Gold breaks the silence.

Rossi Gold

So you'll be in the Arlington Millions.

John Henry

Correct.

Rossi Gold

You've finally hit the big leagues.

John Henry

Mmhm.

Rossi Gold

Let's get it out of the way; gentlewomen's agreement.

John Henry

Yes.

Rossi Gold

I'll be participating as well. But no matter what happens, who wins, who loses, we're still going to be friends.

John Henry

Absolutely.

Rossi Gold

That's my solemn vow.

John Henry

Let me add onto that. If you did not reach out to me, I don't know where I would end up. Probably last place. But you did reach out to me, trained me, gave me all the tools for success.

Rossi Gold

Of course I would.

John Henry

I will not hold back, I will not back down, and I will not let up. And no matter what happens, I will never stop being your friend.

System

Rossi Gold holds out her hand, and John Henry accepts it.

John Henry

Ew, you're all sweaty!

Rossi Gold

This is a profound betrayal of my trust. I am going to rub my face into your shirt.

John Henry

Stop! Go away! Eek!

August 28th, 10:55

System

John Henry is at the Wildenstein Residence, waiting for Madam Gay in one of the lounges.

Madam Gay

Oh. You're here.

John Henry

Yeah, hey, let's —

Madam Gay

No, you bloody pillock. I know what you want, and I am not having it. I am your opponent, you will treat me as your opponent, and I want nothing to do with you until the race. Go home.

John Henry

I'm just here to say good luck. And may the best horse win.

John Henry

And I'll be honest, I don't really understand the attitude, but I know you're a lot kinder than you want to seem. I don't know why you have to put on the act, but I still appreciate everything you've done for me, good and bad. Mostly the good parts. But the bad parts are harmless.

System

Madam Gay purses her lips and crosses her arms. She is blushing very slightly.

Madam Gay

Well. That's very kind of you. I think it's past your curfew. Better leave.

John Henry

Understood. Thanks for listening.

System

John Henry gets up, but just as she's about to leave, Madam Gay thrusts a bouquet of flowers onto her.

John Henry

Oh! Uh —

Madam Gay

They're lilies. Plant in a neutral soil. Water every three days. Don't fuck it up.

Madam Gay

I'll see you out there.

John Henry

Neutral soil, water every three days. Got it. I'll keep these. I'll see you out there.

August 31st, 12:20

System

Dr. Lona Callmany

Are you nervous?

John Henry

Not even a little bit.

John Henry

….

Dr. Lona Callmany

You're pacing. Hey, champ, you've got this. God, I never thought I'd say that. I'm like a youth league baseball dad. Anyways. You're the greatest athlete this track has ever seen.

John Henry

I feel like I'm going to go mad with the waiting. Who do I gotta worry about?

System

You flip through the program.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Key to Content might give you a run. She's a bit younger than you, less structured, but she'll be leading the charge. You'll need to catch her when she tires. Kilijaro is more talk than bite, if you ask me. She can make a decent head start, but she struggles to keep it up the entire time.

System

Her finger lands on The Bart.

John Henry

I remember her. Where was it? The Hollywood Invitational?

Dr. Lona Callmany

And you beat her.

John Henry

She's gotten better since then.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Not good enough, I'd say. She's sitting at 40-1 odds. Just stay on the outside, close in when the timing's right.

John Henry

What about Rossi Gold and Madam Gay?

Dr. Lona Callmany

I'm less worried about them. Rossi Gold hasn't won a Grade I stakes, and Madam Gay won over in France, once.

John Henry

Not that. You know what I mean.

Dr. Lona Callmany

They know what they're getting into. They all do. The nature of competition is that someone will rise to the top, and everyone else won't. There's no shame in it. They will do their best, and you will do your best.

Dr. Lona Callmany

You can do this.

System

You reach out and rub John Henry's shoulder. She leans into it, fully trusting you. It's a warmth you're not used to receiving, let alone giving. For a moment, it's just the two of you.

System

Then the announcer's voice lets you know its time. The other girls begin to move in a march toward the starting gate. John Henry pulls away, rolling her shoulders, her eyes fixed ahead.

System

The race spans ten furlongs over turf on a left-handed track. This is the first year this race has ever been hosted. By the clock, it should take just over two minutes to complete.

You glance to your side and spot your friends, lined up beside you on the inside. Rossi Gold grins at you with a determined look in her eye. Madam Gay follows suit, offering you a small, nervous smile, perhaps the first time Madam Gay has ever shown weakness to you. The Bart is there too.

This is history in the making, folks, it's the very first Arlington Million, and let me tell you, the stakes are high. One million dollars on the line. You heard me right.

There is a moment of stillness before the flag goes up, just a few seconds, but it feels like a millennium.

The flag is up and they're off in the inaugural running of the Arlington Million!

A perfect start. The turf meets your feet naturally with just the right give. You settle into the steady rhythm of the hammer, conserving your energy.

And it's Match the Hatch who seizes the early lead. Key to Content and The Bart are right behind her. In fifth, we've got Madam Gay, biding her time along the rail. John Henry on the outside. And bringing up the rear is Rossi Gold.

A deep pounding like the hammering of steel drills, starts in your chest, your heartbeat falling into step with every pounding stride. Sweat streaks down you face as the field bunches tight; there is not a single opening from the inside. These are professionals, a cut above the people you've been facing up to this point. But it's the same gameplan as always. You just have to run faster and harder on the outside.

And here they come past the stands! Key to Content is hugging the rail in first, The Bart alongside in second while Match the Hatch falls to fourth. Rossi Gold is still last but they are all packed together like sardines.

Rossi Gold is eyeing me. She knows I'm primed to explode. She knows I can't do it. Not yet.

Key to Content and The Bart have broken away from the pack, it's a three-quarter length lead over Match the Hatch. The rest of the field remains tightly bunched as they hit the half-mile pole.

You see Madam Gay charge first. You can't tell if she jumped the gun, since she's been holding a good position this entire race. Rossi Gold soon follows from there. This isn't your time. Not yet.

Madam Gay charging along the rail to overtake third! Rossi Gold is making her move! Match the Hatch dropping places.

You remember being a child, angry and alone. The world had no soft edges for you. They said no family would take you, not with that attitude. They said you couldn't race. That your body wasn't built for it, that your temper needed curbing. You needed to be controlled, you needed to behave, and they tried their damnedest to push you down.

Here comes John Henry!

They named you John Henry not because you were a legend, but because you were ordinary.

The Bart has this race by two lengths! Madam Gay is driving giving it her all in second.

You spent your whole life bouncing between houses, schools, trainers. Nothing was really stable.

Key to Content and Match the Hatch are pulling from the pack! John Henry on the outside!

When they saw the essence of steel in your eyes, they called it wrong. Soften yourself, sit still, speak quietly, be nothing.

John Henry is charging!

You want to scream bloody murder. You want the pistons to pump red blooded rage into your muscles, the coal to scorch the earth in your wake, the squeal of gear shifts as it drives ten tons of wrought iron forward.

The Bart right along the rail!

For a brief millisecond, you hesitate. You remember War Relic's omen and ponder if you are just another railroad worker, a cog in the steam powered machine. You heave as deeply as your lungs allow.

The Bart and John Henry, neck and neck! The Bart! John Henry! The Bart! John Henry

You close your eyes and let your momentum propel you forwards. You've started this, and you can't stop now.

Is it John Henry or The Bart? It looked like The Bart crosses the finish line by a whisker, but will get back to you on that! Madam Gay follows, placing third. It's over folks! You could thread a needle with what we just saw today!

August 31st, 13:04

System

System

It's over.

System

John Henry clumsily jogs, letting her limbs drag behind.

John Henry

I — gave it everything. Every thing I had.

System

John Henry drops to her knees, the fatigue catching up with her. She came in second. Behind her, the giant signage flickers to life, flashing two words: PHOTO FINISH.

The Bart

It's me. The Bart.

System

She introduces herself, again, like a broken record. John Henry looks up.

The Bart

I don't believe it. Down to the wire! We ran a hell of a race out there. Scared me half to death, sneaking up on me like that.

John Henry

I really needed that million.

The Bart

Huh? What's wrong with you? You're just here for the money? Is that all racing means to you? Just a check? You're at the top of the game. The big leagues. That was the race of a lifetime.

John Henry

Everyone expected me to win. I didn't want to let everyone down.

System

They both look up at the billboard displaying the time: 2:07.3. The announcer's voice drones on, discussing The Bart. John Henry glances toward Madam Gay. Her eyes are hollow as she trudges across the turf, the announcer's words trailing behind her. There's no question that she's third.

John Henry

You raced well out there. That was the hardest race of my life.

Madam Gay

You too. I don't think I can ever place first again.

Rossi Gold

I am proud of all of us. But I believe my presence here is — ah — inopportune. I'll see you both at the banquet afterwards.

Madam Gay

Bye Rossi.

John Henry

See you later.

John Henry

Ugh, god, look at me. I'm going to start crying.

Madam Gay

I'm afraid my sponsors will take me out of Arlington and send me back home. I — this was my last chance to show them I'm something.

John Henry

You proved yourself. I — I think I did too. I believe that's what matters. We worked our damn hardest in the greatest race ever.

System

Madam Gay sits down with her legs to the side and gives John Henry a hug. She hugs back.

John Henry

I'll see you at the ceremony.

Madam Gay

I'm sorry.

Madam Gay

For looking down on you. You definitely showed me.

System

Four minutes come and goes. John Henry trudges over and sinks down beside you. You hand her water and a dozen chocolate donuts. Her tears and sweat are dry now.

Dr. Lona Callmany

You did good. You're a winner in my heart, kid.

Dr. Lona Callmany

We'll still walk away with a decent purse. Two hundred thousand, two fifty if we're lucky.

John Henry

We still have a long way to go.

Dr. Lona Callmany

Sure is. Hey, you're going to make yourself sick eating those that fast. Wait — can you even have chocolate?

John Henry

M'fine.

System

John Henry sticks her tongue out playfully.

System

After some discussion, the call was made. The official results are in.

System

John Henry places first — by a sliver.

System

You must have misheard. You check John Henry's reaction, who also must have misheard. The two of you stare at each other, stunned, before screaming and leaping into the air. John Henry is practically uncontrollable as she bounces around. Suddenly, the press starts swarming around her, and she quickly wipes donut from her mouth as she trots toward the awards ceremony.

System

Rossi Gold sprints toward her and nearly tackles her to the ground, both of them dissolving into laughter. Madam Gay hesitates for a moment before Rossi waves her over eagerly. A grin breaks across Madam Gay's face, and she jogs to join them.

System

The press swarms around her, microphones and cameras pointing at her from every angle. This is her first major televised race, and the spotlight is overwhelming.

The Press

John Henry! John Henry! What do you have to say to all the young horse girls out there?

John Henry

Oh um…

John Henry

I think you should always aim for the stars, even when it feels impossible. Maybe you won't get there. Maybe gravity's too strong, but you've got friends who'll tell you where to look. Who'll catch you when you fall.

John Henry

Is this anything?

The Press

What's next for you? The Breeder's Cup?

The Bart

Whoa, slow it down, folks. The lady's not taking any more questions. But please, ask me anything!

System

Henry mouths a thank you to Bart.

System

She stands as tall as she can at the winner's circle, a garland of red and white carnations is draped across her shoulders, framed with magnolia leaves. The trophy in her hands is enormous. She hoists it to the side awkwardly and gestures for her friends.

John Henry

I want y'all to have this.

System

She carefully plucks two carnations from her garland, a white one for Rossi Gold, a red one for Madam Gay. Rossi Gold tucks her white bloom behind her ear with a theatrical flip of her hair. Madam Gay follows suit.

Rossi Gold

You know this isn't the end for us, my dear John Henry. Rematch at next year's Arlington Million?

John Henry

Of course, see you next year.

System

They both look at Madam Gay.

Madam Gay

See you next year.

System

Against all odds, John Henry has won the first Arlington Million.

to be continued …