[7k words ]
Kitahara now realized—the horse girls were indeed simple, but that didn't mean they were completely without little schemes.
…Inari One's words just now, wanting to help Oguri Cap vent her frustration—that was real. Wanting a unique "skill" of her own—that was also real.
Hmm. She managed to balance both public and private reasons. Looks like this kid really put some thought into it.
As for this so-called "skill"…
"Whether you teach someone a lesson or not doesn't matter, what's important is to win the race anyway."
Thinking this, Kitahara slowly said:
"You're not wrong. If you have a refined strategy, it really can increase the chances of victory…"
That was indeed what he believed.
Conflicts among horse girls, in his impression, were rarely too complicated or serious. Black Ale's rudeness was out of line, yes, but ultimately results spoke louder than words—so no need to get hung up on it.
As for strategy, having one was of course nice, but things like Super Creek's "Swinging Maestro" weren't something you could just casually come up with.
That strategy relied on "super endurance," using stamina to manipulate pace and confuse opponents. In other words, without a strong physical foundation, even knowing the strategy wouldn't let you pull it off.
Lately Oguri and the others had tried similar tactics, but the restrictions they faced were huge compared to Super Creek.
For example: in a 2000m race, Super Creek could accelerate twice, creating one deceptive feint. But Oguri and the others could only accelerate once. If they slowed after that burst, they'd just collapse—their stamina would be completely burned out.
If you had to find an application, then only in mile races it could be useful. But even then, Bay Gulf could accelerate three times, while Oguri and the others only twice.
So, for 2000m races, it was better for Oguri and the rest to just save that one acceleration for the final stretch. With their finishing kick, even if Super Creek was ahead, she would have trouble matching them in the end.
Especially Oguri—she could manage two accelerations, sometimes even three under the right conditions. That kind of raw ability was more terrifying than any strategy.
So for Inari One, a strategy had to be carefully thought out…
But Inari didn't know what Kitahara was thinking. The moment she heard him, she brightened up. Even with most of her face hidden behind a fox mask and blindfold, joy still radiated from her expression.
"Really? Really?! There's a strategy that works for me?! That's great! As expected of Uncle Kitahara, you're the best!"
"Oi, oi, if Tōbara heard you say that, he'd be heartbroken…"
Kitahara first teased, then spoke honestly:"I'll think seriously about strategy, but don't place all your hopes on that."
"No matter how good the strategy, it depends on your foundation. Without that, it's meaningless."
"Especially since your vision training isn't up to par yet. Your adaptability to mud and heavy track is still weak. If it rains on race day—even if I do come up with a strategy, you still might not win."
He sounded almost nagging:"So, focus on training. Build up your foundation first—then we'll talk about tactics."
"Of course, I'll also consider strategies for you seriously. If I find something, I'll tell you right away."
Hearing that, Inari didn't pout or despair.
"Eh, I see."
She exhaled, laced her hands behind her head, and pouted:"You're right, Uncle Kitahara. I've been too impatient."
"My impatience is exactly what makes me mess up in races, so this time I'll use it as practice to fix my temperament."
"Then I'll head in—ah, no, Uncle Kitahara, take me to the office please. Thanks."
Still wearing a blindfold, she hadn't fully adapted to the darkness yet. Kitahara nodded and guided her inside.
Tora and Inari were going to be interviewed by Fujii Izumi. Today's main training was handled by Komiyama's group, so Kitahara was relatively free.
He kept thinking about Inari's request for strategy and decided to go talk with Maruzensky.
Maruzensky's purpose in assisting the team was to help the girls grasp "Domains." But she had made it clear from the start—research on Domains in this world was limited. She could only guide based on her experience, and it would take a long time. So far, she had mostly been studying training records and hadn't actually taught Domain methods.
But Inari's question gave Kitahara a new idea. Maybe he could ask.
When he entered the student council room, he found only Maruzensky sipping afternoon tea—no Symboli Rudolf or CB.
Maruzensky was surprised but quickly smiled.
"Come, Kitahara, join me for tea."
She grinned:
"I've got the English black tea Sirius gifted me last time—try some. And these green dumplings from Mejiro's household chef—very delicious, have some too~"
…Well, at least this time she didn't say she "snatched" the tea. But she slipped up with the dumplings.
Kitahara couldn't help but chuckle inwardly. A retired legendary horse girl, rich with prize money and endorsement deals—yet always acting like she's scrounging food from friends.
Especially with her sports car endorsements—reportedly worth millions, even billions. As the "Dream Supercar" legend, brands would pay any price for her.
Amused, Kitahara joked:
"You told me before to come by for tea when I had time, so here I am."
Sitting casually opposite her, he smiled: "Besides, I've figured out a way forward for Tōra and Inari. President Maruzensky, maybe it's time you helped us again?"
Maruzensky quickly saw through him.
"Oh? You're in a hurry, aren't you? You came to ask about Domains."
Kitahara didn't deny it and explained how Inari had asked about strategies, and how that led him to think about Domains.
Maruzensky sipped her tea and then said:
"Just call me Maruzensky, no need for ' Vice President.' We're close enough, aren't we?"
After setting down her cup, she handed Kitahara a serving of tea and sweets, then explained:
"You're right—Domains do have triggers."
"Remember, I told you each horse girl's Domain is unique? Same for the trigger conditions."
"For me, Rudolf, and CB, when we first awakened our Domains, it was through a very specific repeated experience. Basically, encountering that trigger condition again and again."
"For me, it was being near the front on the final turn—suddenly, a powerful urge to accelerate, and I always could."
"For Rudolf, it was consecutive overtakes in the final turn. For CB, it was still being in last place entering the last turn."
"These moments—every horse girl who awakened a Domain has them."
"But after a few times, we no longer needed the trigger. We'd fully mastered it. …Hm? Kitahara, what's with that face?"
Kitahara was utterly shocked.
These Domain triggers… weren't they exactly like "Unique Skills"?!
Maruzensky's Unique required being near the front in the final stretch—effect, a second acceleration. Rudolf's—consecutive overtakes. CB's—trailing from the back.
All identical to their game-world Unique Skill conditions!
So the "Domain," another gift of the Three Goddesses… was this!
If he knew their destinies from the other world… he could guide them to awaken Domains faster!
And he did know them.
For a moment, he wanted to tell Maruzensky everything. He knew Inari's Unique trigger, Oguri's, Super Creek's, Tamamo Cross's, Mejiro Ardan's—and many more.
With this, even if Inari didn't fully master her Domain before the next race, she'd still be stronger.
But then he froze and closed his mouth.
Problems.
First—races aren't rehearsals. Those conditions don't always appear. Uncontrollable.
Second—without the foundation, even knowing the trigger doesn't help.
And most importantly…
Kitahara grimaced.
…In the game, horse girls didn't just have one Unique. They had skins. Different skins, different Uniques. Some had nothing to do with destiny. Which one was "true"?
If he blurted this out, it would raise way too many questions about his secret.
So he calmed himself and said vaguely:
"I just didn't expect Domains to have such clear triggers. I got carried away with some thoughts, haha. Don't mind me."
"For now, let's research slowly. Inari and the others will keep training as usual."
Having found a key clue, Kitahara was in a great mood. His cheer carried into training, where even his scoldings and summaries came with a smile.
The girls, adapting to darkness, noticed the change in his tone. Tōbara and the others saw it too. Everyone was curious.
"…I just remembered something that made me happy," Kitahara explained with a smile. "Don't worry about it—just focus on training."
They joked a little but let it pass. Only Maruzensky, smiling outwardly, wondered silently:
Could Kitahara have realized the truth about Domains…?
…Impossible. Even horse girls touched by the goddesses' blessings couldn't fully understand them. How could a human?
Well, no matter. If he really did discover something, it would only help horse girls. Best to let him reveal it himself.
This trainer kept surprising her more and more…
Kitahara, oblivious, continued his daily routine. Soon, February 16th arrived—Inari's Saimai Championship.
In the prep room, Oguri, Tamamo Cross, and Super Creek still wore blindfolds. Inari wore light sunglasses.
Through training, their hearing, smell, and touch had all improved significantly. They could now live daily life independently, and even jog safely while blindfolded. Data showed their sensory indicators had risen more than 10 percentage points, with hearing up 42%—a remarkable result.
Inari's sunglasses were for re-adjusting to light. After weeks in darkness, she couldn't suddenly expose her eyes. Dark then light glasses were her buffer. Today, even the light ones could come off.
"Alright, Inari, you can take them off now," Kitahara said after confirming with Kyoko.
"OK!"
She pulled them off with a cheer. "Yahoo—! Finally, I can see the light again!"
Before anyone could react, she darted to the others, grinning mischievously. Pretending to stroke Oguri, she suddenly reached for Tamamo Cross's head—
But Tamamo caught her wrist midair.
"Oi! Inari, what are you doing?!"
"Uh…"
Caught red-handed, Inari laughed awkwardly. "Haha, I just wanted to see what you all looked like blindfolded. Thought it'd be funny to touch."
"Eh? Really?"
Tamamo blinked, let go, then immediately realized:
"Wait—you were wearing sunglasses these days, you did see us! Don't lie! You were slacking off, weren't you?!"
"Even if I couldn't see, I could hear you sneaking around!"
"What were you really planning?!"
Kitahara nearly burst out laughing. The others, including Mejiro Ardan, were all stifling smiles.
He coughed, redirecting."Alright, enough squabbling. Save it for after the race. Focus."
Everyone quieted.
"This race is 2000m—your specialty, Inari. Grass track—you've adapted well enough from dirt, so no problem there."
"The only issue…"
Kitahara's face hardened.
"…It's raining. The track is worse than anything we trained on. In short—"
"…a Heavy Track."
Inari's expression stiffened.
She had improved a lot at handling mud, thanks to training with Golden City and others. Strength wasn't her problem.
But today's conditions were worse than any practice so far. That was the real challenge.
"…I get it, Uncle Kitahara. This will be a tough race."
Clenching her fists, she drew a deep breath—then laughed heartily, as always.
"Hahahahaha, but isn't that just perfect for me!"
"Just a little bad track condition, that's all. We've been training for this for so long—how could I possibly be afraid?"
"Relax. During this time with my eyes covered, besides sharpening my senses, I feel like my temper has gotten better too. Maybe I've tempered my patience in the darkness."
"In any case, I'm in the best condition I've ever been in, so don't worry!"
She placed one hand on her hip, raised the other, extended her index and pinky fingers, and pressed the tips of her middle, ring finger, and thumb together—a "fox" gesture.
"I'll give it my all! And also…"
Looking toward Oguri Cap, she said with full confidence: "I made a promise to Oguri, so I absolutely won't lose!"
Her spirit was good, no need for anyone to cheer her up deliberately.
And indeed, Inari's temper really had improved during this period. If it had been before, with Tamamo Cross being so noisy, she probably would've blown up already.
So there wasn't much to worry about—except…
Nodding quietly to herself, Kitahara glanced curiously at Oguri Cap.
When had those two ever made a promise? And what exactly was that promise…?
Though puzzled, Kitahara didn't ask right away. Judging from the time, it seemed they should leave now and let Inari prepare for her entrance.
"Then everything's ready."
Fixing her gaze on Inari, then sweeping her eyes across the others, Kitahara raised her arm. "We believe in you, Inari. You're going to win this one!"
"Hey hey hoo!" ×9.
Once Kitahara and the others left for the stands, Inari carefully checked her tracksuit and racing shoes.
Unlike other horsegirls, who usually handled their own racing shoes and horseshoes—since these were key to performance and rarely entrusted to others—in the Eisei Team, all the gear was handled by Belno Light. She had outstanding technical skill, especially in shoeing. Oguri and the others had tried it themselves, but none of their adjustments compared to hers.
Light, Oguri, Tama, Creek, Ardan…
And Kitahara, Old Man, Kyoko-san, Komiyama-san…
And even Maruzensky-Senpai
Every race, with this much support, that's why the Eisei Team had come so far…
And today, I also have that promise with Oguri to fulfill…
So…
Who cares if the track is heavy, muddy, or rough…
I, Inari One, child of Edo, born from Oi racetrack…
Will win it all and show you!
After confirming everything was set, Inari waited for the broadcast cue and followed procedure into the paddock.
"…And now, let's welcome the second-most popular runner, blazing hot lately, member of the Eisei Team, undefeated in 7 races, Oi's ultimate weapon—Inari One!"
…Tch. Second-most popular? If I remember right, first is…
As she entered, a short-haired, sharp-faced horsegirl with three earrings on her right ear approached head-on.
Black Ale… her.
Inari suddenly felt a wave of irritation, though powerless against it.
That girl had provoked Oguri and Kitahara before, but there was no denying her strength.
She came from the Central and had already racked up four straight wins in Central-level races. Even with her own 7-for-7 record, Inari was just arriving from the Local circuit. Naturally, popularity wasn't in her favor.
But don't think being Central-born means you can look down on Locals so easily…
Shadow Roll, walking straight ahead, suddenly paused when passing Inari.
"…Eisei Team? What a grand name."
Her tone dripped with scorn. "Just a bunch of nobodies grouped together."
"Hey, shorty. You're with that mud rabbit, aren't you?"
"If you lose, tell her this for me: go back to the countryside, lick your wounds with your little nobody friends. The Central has no place for weaklings—not even a centimeter!"
With a cold sneer, she strode off, not waiting for an answer.
"Hey."
Without turning, Inari called out calmly.
Funny. In the past, hearing something like that from Black Ale, she would've exploded, not caring about URA suspensions or penalties—she would've fought right then and there.
But now, she only wanted to say one thing. To pass on one thing.
Black Ale didn't stop, footsteps fading away.
Still, Inari wasn't angry. She remained calm.
"Before coming to Central, I lost once to Oguri. If you can't even beat me, then stop saying things like that—it's embarrassing."
The footsteps behind her halted. Inari kept walking forward.
"Also, I wasn't going to make a big deal about beating you, but Oguri asked me to tell you—if I win…"
"First, stop using foul language."
"Second, apologize to Kitahara."
"Third… well, no third. I just wanted to make it sound more imposing."
From behind came the rustle of clothes, the sudden sound of harsh breathing. Inari knew—Black Ale was angry.
…Tch. Can't even take that? Your mentality's worse than mine used to be.
Looks like my odds of winning just went up.
When she stepped into the parade ring, Inari felt surprisingly calm. She ignored the announcer's hype and focused on the rain.
It had been pouring in the morning, now it was lighter, but forecasts warned of heavier rain later, meaning…
More strength would be needed! And strength is something I already have, along with my trained senses! My chances are higher!
Perfect!
I'll show you all—Oi's ultimate weapon… no, Eisei's ultimate weapon—just how strong I really am!
Her fighting spirit burning, she ignored the crowd and walked to the starting gates.
Drip, drip…
In this unprecedented calm, she could clearly hear raindrops striking the metal gates.
Not just calmness—it was also the effect of her training…
Strange. She'd felt it in training, but now, in a real race, to sense the whole course so clearly—it was wonderful.
Oguri… were all your races like this?
So sly. You had this ability so early.
But now—I have it too.
When I win today, we'll have our showdown again!
Bang! The gates flew open. Without hesitation, Inari surged forward, claiming the inner rail.
No acceleration. She let the others rush past.
Her style was chasing from behind—no need to lead early.
1…
2, 3, 4…
5, 6…
7…
8, 9.
Good. All nine are ahead. Now…
Let's see if your mud and spray can still blind me.
Following closely, she focused intently.
Soon, surprise turned to delight, and she almost burst out laughing.
The training worked too well—she could barely contain her excitement.
Before, in practice races, mud would splash onto her face like waves, ruining her vision and focus. She couldn't avoid it, got agitated, lost form.
But now, her sight, hearing, smell, and touch formed a perfect "net." Like a fox guarding its snare, nothing escaped her senses.
She saw the arcs of flying mud.
Heard where they'd fall.
Smelled the grass clinging to the drops.
Felt how wind would carry them aside or block her view.
All she had to do was dodge what mattered. Her vision was no longer hindered!
Mud blurred her view a little, sure—but with heightened senses, she didn't need to see. The nine opponents, her own state, the course—all mapped in her mind.
Yes! That's it! That's the feeling!
The feeling of not being hindered!
She grinned, like a fox that had caught prey.
Wait for me, everyone ahead…
Wait for me to catch up…
And tear you all apart!
Her sharpened senses grasped everything.
The leader had barely three lengths on second place—not enough to win.
Second, third, and fourth fought each other for position, swapping repeatedly.
Fifth through eighth were packed tightly, jostling even harder.
And ninth place…
Inari frowned.
Tch. That Black Ale…
Not just talk.
Four-for-four in Central wasn't luck. She was breathing steadily, arms and strides balanced, unlike the others already faltering.
…Is she waiting for me?
Her eyes narrowed. She was sure of it.
The course was halfway done—soon the third turn, then quickly the fourth, then the final stretch to decide it all!
Hoo—time to move!
Heat surged through her body, power flooding to her legs.
Boom! Her step thundered against the track.
"…So you couldn't hold back after all."
From eighth place, Black Ale muttered coldly.
"I'll admit, your strength surprised me. But…"
"You think I'll just let you pass?!"
For a moment, Inari almost panicked.
Chasers always faced blocks. Fail to break through, and you lose on the spot.
URA rules banned malicious blocking, but Central runners were masters of legal interference. She knew—Gold City, Maruzensky—legends of blocking technique.
Ale wasn't at that level, but she wasn't to be underestimated.
Because while the others' rhythms faltered, Shadow Roll was rock solid.
…Damn, is she really this strong? No, if she were that strong, Tora and Old Man Kita would've warned me—trained me for it.
Right. Don't panic. Stay calm, Inari. Don't waste your temper. Calm down!
Okay. You're boasting that much…
Clenching her teeth, she thundered forward again.
"Then try and stop me…"
Eyes wide, teeth flashing sharp in the rain, she roared:
"JUST! TRY! ME!!"
Like a storm tearing the rain apart, she charged at Shadow Roll.
"Good!"
Ale surged too, her body like black ink spreading through rain.
In an instant, they clashed—sparks on the track.
The crowd went wild.
"Whoa! As expected from the Eisei Team—always so unpredictable!" the commentator shouted."First it was Super Creek's outrageous escape, now it's a head-to-head duel!"
"Inari One's challenging Ale from last place!"
"Is this the bond of popularity ranks one and two?!"
"Did they plan this duel from the start?!"
"They're already overtaking the others!"
"Sixth, seventh! Fifth, sixth! Third, fourth!"
"They just passed five opponents in one go! Pressuring the leaders!"
"Can the frontrunners hold on?!"
"No! Impossible! Inari One and Shadow Roll are still overtaking!"
In the stands, Kitahara's group was boiling over.
"Go, Inari! Make her lose, make her apologize properly to Kitahara!" Oguri Cap screamed, veins bulging.
Even tiny Tamamo Cross bellowed: "Go, Inari! Don't lose to that jerk! If you do, I'll bite you when you get back!!"
Even the usually calm Bay and Al Dan were shouting hoarsely.
"Run, Inari! You can do it!"
"Don't give up! Everyone's watching!"
Araragi, Komiyama, Kyoko, Shining—they all roared too.
Only Kitahara forced herself to stay calm, eyes fixed.
…If you stay at the back, fight for position, then clash like this…
That could be the trigger for your "innate skill"… maybe even your "domain," Inari…
Did you feel it yet?
…Strange.
She's weaker than expected.
Inari suddenly felt let down.
Ale, who talked so big before, had speed and power at first, sure—but quickly her rhythm collapsed.
What was that? All that boasting, and this is it?
Oh. Of course. She lacked strength for heavy ground, couldn't adapt.
Meanwhile, the other eight had all slowed down behind. Ale too was faltering.
Inari relaxed, even grinned mischievously.
Glancing at the finish line, gauging her stamina, she smirked.
Good. About 100 meters left. And plenty of strength to spare.
Well then...
She suddenly tilted her head, the curve at the corner of her lips growing even bigger.
"Hey, didn't you tell Oguri Cap once that local races were nothing but playing in the mud?"
Black Ale's eyes widened sharply, but with her strength draining away rapidly, she couldn't utter a single word.
"I just want to tell you…"
With her smile stretching almost to her ears, Inari One turned her head straight toward the finish line, drawing ever closer.
"You should go play in the mud more—train up that strength."
"This race…"
"I've won it!"
Boom!
The same thunderous sound of hooves pounding the earth as at the start resounded again. What had been called the "Oi's Final Weapon"… no, now the "Eisei Final Weapon," its storm grew even stronger.
"There's no suspense anymore! No suspense, everyone!"
"All her rivals have slowed! All of them! Only she is still sprinting!"
"50 meters!"
"10 meters!"
"Finish line!"
"After overtaking nine opponents in a row, Inari One… crosses the finish line!"
"What an incredible spectacle! A perfect comeback race, on par with Super Creek's Great Escape earlier! Truly worthy of the Eternal Team! Truly worthy of Inari One!"
"Let's congratulate her!"
The thunderous cheering pierced through the curtain of rain, as if blowing away every drop, crashing down toward Inari One.
"Beautiful! That was absolutely beautiful!"
"What a perfect race! I haven't seen such an intense one in ages!"
"Inari One! Inari One! I'm your fan! I've been your fan since the day I was born!"
At that moment, Inari One finally realized just how noisy the audience stands were.
She scratched at her ear.
"...Tch, what are they all yelling for? So damn noisy…"
Muttering under her breath, she shook out her legs. "This race wasn't nearly as hard as I thought. And to think I was so stressed before…"
"Oh right, that one…"
Thinking of Black Ale, she turned her head—only to see a figure gasping desperately for breath.
"Haah… haah… You… n-no, that's not right… … no, that's not right either… p-please… please allow me a moment, until I… catch… my breath…"
"?"
Inari tilted her head.
This girl…
Did she run herself stupid?
Why does she sound so… weird all of a sudden?
Well, whatever. Since she wants to catch her breath, she can wait a bit before I ask her if she'll uphold the promise.
♪ In the late spring dawn~ the glow shines bright~ blossoms smile~ ♪
In high spirits, Inari One unconsciously hummed an Edo folk tune.
After just a few lines, she suddenly realized something.
Wait, wait—just now, did that girl… use full honorific speech?
No wonder it sounded so strange. Could it be… she's actually going to uphold the promise?
Inari One froze.
By then, Black Ale had calmed her breathing. She looked at Inari, and Inari instinctively asked:
"Eh, you actually remember those two promises? That's rare—I thought you'd cheat your way out of them."
After crossing the line, Black Ale's face had already been red from adrenaline. Only after gasping for breath had her skin returned to a normal pale color. But now, at Inari's words, it flushed bright red again.
"Shut—shut up…! Could you please keep quiet?! That kind… that kind of promise, of course I… I remember… I've carved it into my heart!"
"Hurry… please, just quickly tell me where Mr. Kitahara is! I'll go and apologize sincerely to him right now!"
"…Pfft!"
"You!… Why are you laughing…? Ahhh, this is torture!"
For some reason, Black Ale was clearly obeying their first promise—"no swearing after losing"—but the overly formal, stilted way she said it made it so bizarre that Inari couldn't help bursting into laughter. Black Air clutched her hair like she was going insane.
"You!… Please stop laughing! This is so embarrassing!"
"Pff—hahahaha! O-okay, okay, I won't laugh anymore—hahaha!"
Holding her stomach, Inari laughed until she nearly cried. Looking at Black Ale's crimson, blood-like face, she secretly pinched her thigh, forcing herself to calm down, then began walking off the track.
"As for Uncle Kitahara, after races we're usually busy, so it might not be convenient to see him. But during the day, he's either at the training grounds or in his office—it's easy to find him. Just go straight to him then."
"As for keeping your promise right now…"
She stopped, tilted her head slightly, and gave Black Ale a teasing look. "Since you can't swear, why not just talk normally?"
"Making yourself all twisted like that—honestly, you're hopeless."
Then she kept walking, waving her hand.
"Don't underestimate local horse girls again. In the future, you'll probably see more and more of them in central races. If you keep looking down on them, you'll only trip yourself up."
With that, she began humming her Edo tune again.
♪ In bright spring March~ beneath clear skies~ endless cherry blossoms bloom~ ♪
Ah… today's race—winning it feels so damn good!
Still humming, she went on to star as the center of that day's Winning Live. By evening, it was time for the Eternal Team's victory banquet.
Since Oguri Cap and Tamamo Cross still had upcoming races, they were wearing eye masks, so for convenience, the celebration was held in Kitahara's office.
Around the long dining table, Shine Nova fed Oguri Cap, Inari One fed Tamamo Cross, and Mejiro Ardan fed Super Creek. The rest looked on cheerfully, chatting and laughing, while Kitahara casually mentioned upcoming plans.
"For Oguri Cap and Tama's next two races, the odds are very much in our favor. Unless something unexpected happens, Eternal should add two more victories."
With confidence in his smile, Kitahara continued, "Since entering Central Academy, everyone has worked hard. After this round of races, let's take a short break and rest well!"
"Yay!" ×9
Compared to Creek's and Inari's races, Kitahara felt much more relaxed about Oguri Cap's and Tamamo's.
Creek's win had been necessary to inspire Mejiro Ardan, and Inari had her vision problems—both brought heavier pressure. Thankfully, they both won.
The next two were just OP-level races. The competition wasn't that strong, and with Oguri Cap at 12 wins in 12 races, and Tamamo Cross at 3 wins in 3, both on hot streaks, it was clear they were simply collecting fans and getting used to tracks before moving on to G2 and G1 events. Many rivals chose to dodge them.
Altogether, the two races had barely ten opponents combined—victory was almost assured.
Still, relaxed as he was, Kitahara had plenty to do. As chief trainer of the Eternal Team, besides training and race planning, he had endless chores: coordination with the URA Association and Academy Board, keeping promises to Chairwoman Akikawa Yayoi, reviewing Fujii Sensuke's reports, following Tomomi Ogusu's updates on Kawawan Enterprises, and more.
That day, after a discussion with Tomomi Ogusu, Kitahara learned Nishijin Film Company had approved the "Moe Monsters" project, investing funds and staff. Delighted, he contacted Fujii Sensuke.
Not long after, the passionate reporter burst into Kitahara's office again.
"Chief Kitahara! Big news!"
He waved a stack of newspapers so hard his black-rimmed glasses went crooked, rushing straight up to Kitahara.
"After our last talk, with your permission, I published Inari and Her Bond: Edo Violet. It caused a huge reaction! Many readers were deeply moved by the story between Trainer Yusuhara and Inari One, sending letters of support!"
"And after Inari's big win the other day, I wrote another commentary: Trainer Yusuhara's Regret. Readers were saddened that he couldn't share her glory due to being only a trainee. They begged the URA Association to reconsider his situation! I think it's time to start a petition, a vote, something to show those bigwigs what the people want!"
Kitahara stayed calm, nodding slightly as he accepted the newspaper and read carefully.
The article wasn't complex. It simply chronicled Inari One's upbringing, how she grew with the support of Ohi's elders and friends, and especially her bond with Yusuhara and his mother. Written plainly, the emotions flowed naturally—readers couldn't help but feel touched.
That alone had already moved many fans and even casual readers, as proven by the flood of letters to Shine News.
Adding the follow-up piece about Yusuhara's thankless dedication only deepened sympathy and support.
Kitahara silently praised: this reporter might be hot-blooded, but his professional skill was real.
Still, a petition or vote seemed unnecessary.
After some thought, he set the paper down.
"I think these reports are enough."
Looking at Fujii's excited face, he explained: "Two articles, plus Inari's victory, have already brought her plenty of support. That alone is cause for celebration."
Seeing Kitahara's composure, Fujii blinked, pushed up his glasses, and thought carefully.
"…You're right. Media coverage already secures more support for horse girls. And with Eisei's current reputation, it's even stronger."
"I did some calculations. Inari's fanbase has grown by over 40% since before this race. After just one more appearance—or perhaps even just with time—she'll have enough support to qualify for G3 events."
Of course, Kitahara had been keeping track of her fan numbers. It was crucial for future races. But hearing the encouraging results, he couldn't help but smile.
"Indeed. I doubt anyone will look down on Inari anymore."
Then he added, "From our standpoint, we've already gained enough. Pushing things further with petitions might backfire and cause unnecessary trouble."
Fujii understood, frowned slightly, then sighed regretfully.
"That's true… You and Chairwoman Akikawa are already working to improve Yusuhara's treatment. My idea might've been too extreme."
Kitahara smiled faintly, not commenting further. He valued Fujii's passion, but knew he could be too overzealous at times. A reminder was enough.
Still, Kitahara had another matter for him.
"Since you mentioned Chairwoman Akikawa, I was just heading to her office to discuss Yusuhara's situation."
He stood, gesturing politely. "And I have another plan I'd like you to cover. In fact, I'm planning a press conference."
Fujii's eyes lit up. A scoop—exclusive news!
"Of course I'm interested! Please, explain!"
Kitahara smiled. "Eisei Team has Kawawan Enterprise's support, as you know. They and Nishijin Film Company have a new collaboration—the Moe Monsters Project."
"The idea is to model it after Oguri Cap and the others, combined with the popular Godzilla series, to launch a new franchise."
"It's already in preparation. I'd like you to coordinate with Nishijin to plan a press conference to announce it."
Kitahara trusted Fujii after their successful collaboration before. On the way to Akikawa's office, he explained all details that weren't confidential.
"…This project benefits everyone—Oguri Cap and the team, Kawawan Enterprise, Nishijin Film, and most of all, the fans. It's a win-win-win."
"Of course, we need some hype beforehand. I'd like you, Mr. Fujii…"
"I understand! I understand! Leave it to me!" Fujii burst out, fired up again. "Any project involving horse girls and film is the hottest topic in the industry. Trust me, Chief Kitahara, I'll handle it perfectly!"
"In fact, if you're too busy, I can even secure Nishijin's press approval myself. Believe in me, believe in Shine News—we won't let anyone down!"
Kitahara nodded. "Very well. I'll leave the press conference to you and your paper."
"Excellent! I'll start preparations right away! Just wait for my good news!"
And with that, Fujii stormed out without another word.
"…Hey, weren't we supposed to report to Chairwoman Akikawa together…"
Only after a pause did Kitahara realize—this reporter really was too excitable. But better to let him focus on the press conference.
With that thought, Kitahara adjusted his mind and soon reached the director's office.
He knocked, and after a "come in," he stepped inside.
What he saw stunned him.
Inside were three horse girls and a young woman.
Behind the desk, Chairwoman Akikawa Yayoi, fanning herself with a cat on her lap, was speaking passionately.
To her left, two horse girls—Symboli Rudolf and CB—listened with reverent attention.
And further left, that young woman—
Around twenty, with sharp, refined features, a slightly androgynous aura, golden short hair with bangs swept left, and a diamond-shaped earring on her left ear.
…She looked familiar. Almost as if—
Kitahara paused in thought. The young woman glanced over at him, nodded slightly, as though in greeting.
At that, even Akikawa Yayoi and the other horse girls noticed Kitahara and began greeting him as well.
"Reh-hahaha! Kitahara-san, congratulations on Inari One's victory! Your Eisei Team is becoming more and more famous!"
"Meow~"
"Congratulations, Mr. Kitahara."
"Congratulations, Kitahara~"
Kitahara responded one by one to the congratulations. After thinking a moment, he decided to ask Akikawa Yayoi about the matter of Yusuhara Tarō and Inari One.
"Chairwoman Akikawa, about Yusuhara and Inari One…"
He hesitated, trying to find the right words, but Akikawa already understood what he meant, nodding cheerfully.
"Don't worry, Kitahara-san!"
With a flourish of her fan, the petite chairwoman radiated energy. "Revising the regulations on team honors isn't that complicated to begin with. Inari One won so beautifully, and the reports show the public strongly supports her. The Association and the Council are already discussing how to amend it."
"It won't take long before a horse girl's honors can be adjusted. Whether in name or in prize distribution, there will be new rules, and they'll be announced soon!"
Kitahara was overjoyed. This way, he could finally give both Yusuhara and Inari One an answer, and they no longer had to worry about such things.
Overflowing with relief, he was about to express his gratitude when Akikawa glanced toward the young woman at her side.
"Also, Kitahara-san, your team's operating model has already gained wide recognition. And now there's a new trainer team about to be formed. The Association and Council—even if they didn't want to revise the rules—would have no choice but to consider it, reh-hahaha!"
…So this young lady is about to form a team, too? Otherwise, Chairwoman Akikawa wouldn't have looked at her like that…
Kitahara, curious about the woman to begin with, asked: "Chairwoman, may I ask about this trainer…?"
"Ah, let me introduce her."
Akikawa spread her fan toward the young woman with a smile."This is Trainer Nanse Fumino, who just graduated this year."
"You might not be familiar with her, but you surely know her father."
"What a coincidence it is—Fumino-chan's father, Mr. Nanse Hideto, has long been both a friend and a rival of your uncle, Musaka Ginjirō. For years at Central Academy, their horse girls often clashed."
"Your uncle's nickname is the 'Godfather of Fairies.' Mr. Nanse also had a nickname: the 'Magician of the Racetrack.'"
"How should I put it… he really was like a magician. Any horse girl he trained seemed to transform completely, as if by magic."
"Because of such outstanding skill, up until now, Mr. Nanse Hideto's horse girls have achieved 1,163 victories, including 80 in graded stakes races."
"So, be careful of this extraordinary trainer's daughter! Don't let the fact she's a girl make you underestimate her!"
Snap! Akikawa closed her fan, smiling as she pointed at Kitahara, speaking with meaning:
"Kitahara-san, she might become your future 'rival' at Central!"
Kitahara did his best to suppress his shock, studying the silent Nanse Fumino closely.
It was obvious—when Akikawa mentioned her father, a trace of bitterness and helplessness flickered in her eyes, as though she hated being introduced merely as "so-and-so's daughter."
…So under such a brilliant father's shadow, she must be desperate to surpass him…
Actually, you don't need to worry, Kitahara thought to himself. In another world, your future accomplishments far exceeded your father's by countless times…
Knowing now that the woman beside Akikawa was Nanse Fumino, Kitahara felt deeply conflicted.
Not only because her father and his uncle had long been rivals, but because of her legendary achievements in a parallel world.
At her debut, she set the record for most wins by a rookie. In her second year, she conquered the GI Kikuka-shō, becoming the youngest rider ever to reach 100 wins. In her third year, she captured the Spring and Autumn Tenno-shō as well as the Takarazuka Kinen, becoming the fastest and youngest rider to 200 and then 300 wins.
She remained active for over 30 years, amassing more than 4,400 victories, smashing every historical record for speed and youth in reaching milestones.
The great sire Deep Impact… no, rather, the legendary Japanese jockey Take Yutaka—that was Nanse Fumino's parallel-world counterpart.
And within the Uma Musume project's 100+ horse girls, she had ridden 42 of the original horses, with 267 races and 125 wins, including 43 G1s and 5 JpnI victories.
It could be said that if Nanse Fumino could perform normally in this world, surpassing her father would only be a matter of time.
…Except that I might have snatched her away first, Kitahara thought wryly. In the parallel world, her first horse girl should have been Super Creek…
Remembering the other world made his feelings even more complicated, especially with the thought that he had "stolen" her first horse girl. He couldn't help but doubt whether she could still achieve greatness here.
After a pause, he decided to probe into Fumino's situation indirectly.
"Well, since Chairwoman Akikawa says Trainer Nanse is forming a team, may I ask if she has any suitable horse girls at present?"
That seemed like a natural question. Akikawa herself had said this young woman might be his rival at Central Academy, and competition was inevitable. It was only reasonable to ask.
But the ones who answered weren't Akikawa or Fumino, but Symboli Rudolf and CB.
"To be precise, Trainer Nanse's 'Transcendence Team' is already under review. Barring any accidents, it will be officially established this week."
Rudolf's face showed full confidence.
"And naturally, the 'Transcendence Team' will need horse girls ready to debut. As for exactly who…"
She looked at CB, her eyes meaningful.
"…Hey, Rudolf, I only slacked off once, don't hold it over me forever."
Chiaki sighed helplessly, shrugged, and said, "Fine, I'll explain. After all, I did make it happen."
She turned to Kitahara with a smile.
"Remember when we talked in the Student Council office? About preparing for longer-term races—like this year's Japan Cup—and giving promising horse girls some guidance using our experience?"
Kitahara nodded. "Yes, at the time, it was about handling race pressure, thinking long-term. President Maruzensky has been helping us a lot with that—it's been very useful."
Chiaki clapped her hands with a grin.
"Exactly! With your Eisei Team as precedent, and after what you said that day about cultivating more talented horse girls, Rudolf and I decided then and there to seek out such prospects."
"Of course, most of the actual work was mine. Rudolf dumped it on me."
She added that last part smugly, making Rudolf rub her forehead in exasperation.
"In looking for candidates, I thought—since Kitahara-san runs his team so well, why couldn't I help build another team?"
She smiled, pointing at Nanse Fumino.
"As it happened, I knew Trainer Nanse Hideto from before. I remembered his daughter had graduated recently. When I asked, I found out little Fumino was searching for suitable horse girls."
"I discussed it with her. She said she's always admired your abilities, Kitahara-san, and wanted to try this team-based model too."
"So we immediately set out together to recruit horse girls."
"As of now, even though 'Transcendence' isn't officially formed yet, Fumino already has two horse girls: Sakura Chiyono O and Bamboo Memory."
"And following your team's structure, we've also been in talks with Trainers Dino and Onai, to see if they'd bring their horse girls into 'Transcendence.'"
"Oh, by the way, those two trainers' horse girls are Yaeno Muteki and Dicta Striker."
…Wait a second, CB, You and Nanse Fumino—are you doing this just to counter our Eternal Team?
Kitahara was dumbfounded, torn between laughter and tears.
If CB and Fumino really built this "Transcendence Team" as described, then the four horse girls just mentioned were all powerful enough to rival Eternal.
Sakura Chiyono O needed no introduction—though a bit of a goofy "bullheaded girl" who once tried training herself on the expressway, her strength was undeniable. In the other world, she was the real "Japanese Derby horse girl."
Bamboo Memory was no weaker. In the Mile Championship, she raced against Oguri Cap. In the final 400 meters, she once pulled ahead by two lengths. If not for Oguri's terrifying late burst in the last 200 meters, she might have won that race.
Even then, Oguri only won by a nose. That alone proved Bamboo Memory's strength.
Yaeno Muteki was strong as well—a Satsuki Shō and Autumn Tenno-shō horse girl in the other world, with exceptional ability at 2000 meters.
And Dicta Striker was arguably one of the most outstanding of her generation. She had mastered a "domain" through her own ability, could enter and exit it at will, even saw through Oguri's domain mastery, and with just one joint training run, taught Oguri how to do it too.
…This is practically a mirror image of Eisei! And they named it "Transcendence"? As if they mean to surpass Eternal?!
With a bitter smile, Kitahara glanced at Nanse Fumino. Her expression remained calm. When she noticed his gaze, she only nodded slightly, showing neither excitement nor arrogance.
Perhaps the name wasn't meant to surpass Eternal, but simply her father…?
Well, whatever. Since my actions have somehow brought about such a powerful rival, that only means I'll have to work even harder.
This Transcendence Team was visibly strong already—and it would only grow stronger.
Kitahara drew in a deep breath and made his resolve.
(End of chapter)