[9k words, there maybe mistakes. Please point it out and I will fix it]
After all the matters outside of training were dealt with, the focus returned once again to training and competition.
Compared to before, their daily training and analysis sessions now included discussions about the newly established Transcendence Team.
At present, the academy placed great importance on the organizational model of the Eternal Team. The same was true for the URA Association and the Council.
The proof of this was that, during the period when Oguri Cap and Tamamo Cross respectively won the Spirit Championship and the Fujimori Conditions Race, the "Transcendence Team" had already been formally established. They even held a press conference to introduce the team's members to the entire industry.
On the day of the press conference, Kitahara adjusted the training schedule. He left Tōra in charge of continuing to train Super Creek, Inari One, and Mejiro Ardan together with Kyoko Miyamura and the newly-joined Mitsuhiro. Meanwhile, Kitahara himself took Oguri Cap, Tamamo Cross, and Komiyama, disguised themselves with Fujii Izunosuke's help, and quietly found a secluded corner to watch the press conference.
Oguri Cap and Tamamo Cross had just finished their races and needed rest. They were also curious about the "Transcendence Team." Dressed as ordinary human girls with hats and sunglasses, they looked around with interest beside Kitahara and Komiyama.
"Wow, Kitahara, there are so many people here! Are they all here to see Chiyono O and Yaeno-san and the others?"
With an amused expression, Oguri Cap pointed at the reporters and onlookers ahead, clearly intrigued.
"Pretty much."
Kitahara, also wearing a cap and sunglasses, replied. The Eternal Team was already well-known, and even though the establishment of the Transcendence Team was big news, it would still be troublesome if reporters recognized them.
"Team development like this is still relatively rare in Japan. We were just established not long ago, and the Transcendence Team has only just formed too. Of course, such news is bound to draw attention."
He explained: "It's not that the Japanese horsegirl world doesn't know that international top-level horsegirls are supported by teams. It's just that for various reasons, it hasn't been widely promoted here. Now that we've set a precedent, and the horsegirls in the team have achieved remarkable results, naturally the formation of another new team is bound to draw attention."
"From the perspective of the academy, the Council, the student council, and even the entire industry, this is a good thing."
"Because with the establishment of such teams, while our future competitions will demand more effort and hard work, in the long run, the overall level of Japanese horsegirls will gradually rise."
"And when it comes to international events like the Japan Cup, we'll have more confidence in winning—and a chance to break out of Japan and challenge the world's peak."
Oguri Cap didn't fully understand everything Kitahara said, but she completely understood the last part about the competitions.
"The Japan Cup, huh…"
She nodded vigorously. "The teacher said in class that it's an incredible race—its intensity even surpasses the Japanese Derby. And in the world, there are even more outstanding horsegirls, right?"
Her eyes sparkled with excitement. "I can't wait to participate in such a race, to compete against such powerful horsegirls!"
Seeing this, Kitahara smiled and patted her head.
"Don't worry. You'll definitely get those chances."
At this moment, Tamamo Cross tilted her head curiously.
"Uncle Kitahara, you said this team is only so eye-catching because of us, but why don't I feel like we're famous at all?"
Hearing this, Komiyama chuckled.
"That's because we spend most of our time in the academy. Even if those pesky reporters want to interview you, they need permission to enter the academy. That's why you don't really feel it."
"If you wanted, you could actually hold a press conference like this too."
"Uh… let's forget that. I don't like being in crowded places."
Shaking her head, Tamamo Cross pointed forward, pouting. "I already feel like I'm noisy enough on my own, but these people are even noisier. It's annoying."
Indeed, as she said, the press conference was very noisy. Roughly estimated, it was about as loud as if a hundred Tamamo Crosses were bickering with a hundred Inari Ones at once.
The shouting was of a similar type too: "Aaaah! So cool! Lord Fumino Nasse!"
"Fumino-sama, I love you!"
"Kyaa—! Look this way!"
Komiyama gave a wry smile and instinctively glanced at Kitahara, only to see the same helpless look on his face. She sighed:
"It seems that the chief trainer of the Transcendence Team has an extraordinary amount of popularity."
Then, with a playful look, she said, "So, senpai—ah, I mean, Chief Kitahara, as the chief trainer of the Eternal Team, how do you feel about that?"
"…What else can I feel?"
Kitahara gave a bitter smile. "Even though she's a woman, Fumino Nasse has a very androgynous aura. And honestly, she just looks cooler than me. With such a look, it's natural she'd attract so much popularity and have so many female fans."
As he said, nearly 80% of the cheers at the conference were directed at Fumino Nasse, and nearly all of them came from female fans.
They weren't just shouting; they waved uchiwa fans, banners, and flowers, and whenever they got a chance, they'd throw bouquets past the security guards up onto the stage, leaving the host struggling to keep order. Even repeated requests through the microphone couldn't calm them down.
"Anyway, what we should be focusing on is the trainers and the horsegirls, not this fleeting popularity."
Kitahara sighed, then chuckled as he pointed at the stage. "Besides, having that much popularity might actually be troublesome."
"Look—Yaeno Muteki and the others look like they want to cover their ears, and Fumino Nasse's face is practically green."
Oguri Cap and the others, hearing this, all looked over at the stage. Seeing Yaeno Muteki's stiff expression and Nasse's darkened face, they couldn't help but burst into laughter.
But before they could laugh too long, Nasse suddenly stood up, walked to the host, grabbed the microphone without ceremony, and raised it to her lips.
"Quiet!"
Her low, magnetic voice boomed through the speakers across the entire venue. And the moment their idol spoke, the fans instantly fell silent, staring at her with eager eyes.
"Horsegirls have very sensitive hearing. If you're this noisy, it bothers them. I hope you'll be more mindful from now on."
The words weren't harsh, but Nasse seemed to have a natural charisma. Fans and reporters alike became more cautious, lips shut tightly.
Seeing this, she nodded expressionlessly, turned toward the host, and lifted the microphone slightly as if to hand it back. But in the end, she raised it back to her lips and continued.
"I don't like dragging things out. I'll give a simple introduction to the Transcendence Team."
After that preface, she pointed at herself.
"Fumino Nasse, Chief Trainer of the Transcendence Team."
Then she pointed at a horsegirl with short pale-pink hair, white earmuffs, two cherry blossom ornaments on her left ear, and a nervous expression.
"Sakura Chiyono O, my assigned horsegirl."
Chiyono O hurriedly stood up and nodded before sitting back down. Before reporters could ask questions, Nasse pointed again.
"Bamboo Memory, my assigned horsegirl."
"Hi! I'm Bamboo Memory! Please take care of me!"
The brown-haired horsegirl with a light-blue earring on her right ear and a white headband emblazoned with the word "Dream" leapt up, bowed energetically to the crowd, and sat back down.
Without pause, Nasse gestured to two men on stage, bowing to them before introducing them.
"Transcendence Team Chief Advisor and Vice Trainer, Senior Yoshitaka Dino."
"Transcendence Team Chief Nutritionist and Third Trainer, Mr. Tadashi Konai."
Dino Yoshitaka was an elderly man with a full head and beard of neatly kept white hair, his face stern and spirited, his body in traditional martial garb with tabi socks and wooden sandals—he looked every bit the warrior. His presence was sharp and powerful, and when he bowed and scanned the reporters, they froze in awe.
When Konai Tadashi stood up, however, everyone was stunned. A giant over two meters tall, dressed in a black suit and coat, he loomed like a towering black iron wall. Even with glasses, he radiated intimidation instead of refinement, chilling the atmosphere.
After the two sat down, Nasse continued without letting the audience recover.
"Senior Dino's assigned horsegirl: Yaeno Muteki."
A horsegirl with short light-brown hair, white bangs, a windmill-shaped earring, and cold brown eyes stood up.
"Yaeno Muteki, greetings." She sat back down immediately, closing her eyes to rest.
"Mr. Konai's assigned horsegirl: Dicta Striker."
"Yo, everyone, nice to meet you."
A sharp-looking horsegirl in a hood with two holes for her long ears, three earrings in her right ear, and a wolfish grin casually waved before sitting down.
Thus, all members on stage, including Nasse herself, had been introduced. Nasse gave a brief bow.
"I know what you want to ask."
"Bamboo Memory had a rocky debut last year and still needs to improve her adaptation to turf. Our preparation plan is focused on dirt races, while gradually training her for turf. The specific races are not yet decided."
"As for Sakura Chiyono O, Yaeno Muteki, and Dicta Striker, they've all registered for this year's Classic Triple Crown. Having completed their debuts, they'll participate respectively in the Wakaba Stakes, Spring Stakes, and Yayoi Sho—precursor races to the Satsuki Sho."
"Please look forward to their performances."
"That's all."
She bowed once more, nodded at the stage, and headed backstage.
The others followed suit, rising, bowing, and filing out behind her.
Perhaps due to Nasse's earlier scolding, or perhaps because of Dino and Konai's overpowering presence, the fans and reporters only snapped back to their senses after she left.
"Ahhh! Nasse-sama, don't go! Please take a picture with me!"
"Chief Nasse! As a newly established team, what do you think of the Eternal Team?"
"Chief Nasse! The Eternal Team also has three horsegirls entered in the Triple Crown. You also have three. Is this a deliberate strategy?"
"Nasse-sama! Please accept this bouquet!"
"Excuse me, wasn't Bamboo Memory's arrangement a bit too hasty? She could have entered the Classic Triple Crown too!"
"Excuse me, Chief Nasse—if Sakura Chiyono O and the other horse girls were to face the currently surging Oguri Cap and her group, what chance do they have of winning?"
This noisy barrage of questions did not receive any response from Naise Fumino and the others. Only the host, left standing alone, nervously and awkwardly tried to explain to each side.
Taking advantage of the fact that everyone's attention was on the press conference and the host, Kitahara—who had been silently observing the whole time—turned his head toward Oguri Cap and the others beside him.
"Looks like that's all there is to this press conference. Let's go back."
Oguri Cap, Tamamo Cross, and Komiyama all nodded. As they followed Kitahara out of the venue, Oguri Cap asked curiously:
"Kitahara, if what Naise said is true, then we'll end up meeting Chiyono O, Yaeno, and Dicta Striker on the racetrack, right?"
"She's called Nasse. If you can't remember, just call her 'big sis' instead."
Kitahara was already used to Oguri Cap's trouble remembering names, so he casually gave that suggestion, then thought for a moment.
"We're definitely going to meet them."
He analyzed: "Looking at it now, the Transcendence Team is thinking along the same lines as us. That is, their three horse girls aiming for the Classic Triple Crown will all enter different trial races, so they don't cause unnecessary trouble for each other."
"Unnecessary trouble?"
Tamamo Cross was a bit confused. She had never run the Classic Triple Crown route, so she wasn't familiar with how it worked. "What kind of unnecessary trouble?"
"Because of priority entry rights, Tama."
Komiyama smiled as she explained: "The Satsuki-sho, Japan Derby, and Kikuka-sho are extremely popular races. Lots of horse girls want to run them, so there are strict entry conditions."
"Normally, each of these three races has 'trial races.' For example, the Yayoi-sho, Wakaba Stakes, and Spring Stakes are trials for the Satsuki-sho. These trials share many of the same conditions as the Satsuki-sho—distance, slopes, intensity, pace. Running them helps prepare for the Satsuki-sho."
"More importantly, winning one of these trials gives you priority entry rights into the Satsuki-sho—direct qualification. Otherwise, you can only get in through fan popularity, past records, or by lottery."
"That's why our side is doing the same thing—Oguri Cap, Super Creek, and Mejiro Ardan will all be entered in different trial races to improve our chances of getting in."
Saying this, she beamed at Kitahara, clearly fishing for praise. "Well, senior, did I get that right?"
Kitahara couldn't help but laugh. "You got it right."
Then his expression grew more serious. "But since Mejiro Ardan hasn't debuted yet, I haven't finalized which trial races she'll run."
"Since we're going back tonight, we'll discuss it. This is the start of our team's challenge for the Classic Triple Crown—how we open the battle."
That night, after the Transcendence Team's press conference, Kitahara finalized Oguri Cap and Super Creek's trial race plans.
In the office, on the whiteboard at the center, were written in large, bold characters:
"Sakura Chiyono O — Wakaba Stakes — Super Creek"
"Yaeno Muteki — Spring Stakes —"
"Dicta Striker — Yayoi-sho — Oguri Cap"
"Mejiro Ardan — Debut Race — Spring Stakes/?"
Facing the whole team, who sat at attention as if preparing for battle, Kitahara held a laser pointer and explained line by line.
"Sakura Chiyono is someone we're familiar with. Creek and Oguri have met her, and they're on good terms in class, so we have a decent grasp of her situation."
He nodded toward Oguri Cap and Creek, then looked back at Komiyama and the others.
"From what we've gathered, Chiyono's debut was smooth. She won her debut race and then the OP-class Fujiyo Special Cup two months later."
"In her third race, the Ginnan Special Cup at Tokyo, she finished second—not far behind. That race was on bad ground, the same day as Inari One's Umayou Cup, so it seems she doesn't adapt well to poor footing, though it's not a fatal weakness."
"After that, in the Asahi Hai Futurity Stakes, she pulled off a brilliant come-from-behind win. So, as of now, she has four runs, three wins—including a G1, the Asahi Hai."
At the mention of G1, everyone's expression grew serious. That's the highest central-level race. Winning one made Sakura Chiyono unquestionably a top-tier competitor.
Moreover, the Asahi Hai had a special meaning: only horse girls within their first year of full development could run it. Its champion was considered "the most promising horse girl of the generation."
And indeed, Sakura Chiyono had received this year's URA Award for "Best Debut Horse Girl"—second in prestige only to "Best Rookie."
"From her races so far, Chiyono specializes in escape and front-running strategies," Kitahara continued. "Among us, the only one with the ability and suitability to match her is Super Creek."
He looked at Creek. "So the Wakaba Stakes against Sakura Chiyono is yours, Creek."
"Mm! Don't worry, Kitahara-san."
She stood up with determination, just like she had at the press conference, and nodded firmly. "I'll give it everything I've got against Chiyono!"
"Good—that's the spirit."
After praising her, Kitahara turned to Oguri Cap.
"Oguri, your overall stats aren't far from Creek's. But Dicta Striker's strongest skill is similar to yours. I want you to face her and get used to deciding races with the finishing kick."
He glanced briefly at Tamamo Cross and Inari One, who were both watching intently.
…Because the two of you are also opponents she'll have to outkick someday.
Kitahara's gaze was too quick to catch. Oguri Cap didn't notice, simply nodding seriously.
"Okay, I'll do my best."
Then, puzzled, she asked: "Is Dicta really… that strong at the finish?"
Kitahara's expression grew solemn.
"That's right. If we leave you and Inari out of it, Dicta Striker is currently the strongest finisher at Tracen's Central Academy."
"What? Hold up, Kitahara-ossan—there's someone out there who can match Oguri—or even Inari—at the finish? And I've never heard of her? Dicta Striker?"
Tamamo Cross was shocked.
"Yeah. Honestly, Oguri's finishing speed seems unmatched. I can push her in training sometimes, but it's tough," Inari One admitted in surprise.
Skipping over Yaeno's line on the whiteboard, Kitahara pointed the laser at the third line and began explaining patiently.
"On August 9 last year, at Hakodate, in her 1200m debut, Didcta Striker botched the start—yet surged to the front in no time, took the lead, and won by 9 lengths."
"She then entered the Hakodate Stakes. She lost, finishing 4th. But a month later, in the Momiji Stakes, she won by 10 lengths with her explosive kick."
"She rested two months for a leg injury, then returned at the Hanshin Juvenile Fillies at year's end."
"The Hanshin JF? Isn't that—"
Being from Kansai, Tamamo Cross immediately reacted, looking at Komiyama. "Isn't that the G1 race said to decide the strongest rookie horse girl in Kansai?"
Komiyama nodded gravely. "Yes. The Hanshin JF is one of the earliest G1s rookies can enter. Like the Asahi Hai, it decides the top newcomer."
"And in that Hanshin JF… Dicta Striker won by 8 lengths."
Everyone's faces grew heavy. Kitahara too nodded slowly, emphasizing:
"Not only did she win by 8 lengths—she broke the race record."
"She shaved 0.6 seconds off a record that had stood for 16 years, finishing in 1:34.5. That's an average speed of 16.91 meters per second—nearly 17 m/s. And that number…"
He looked at Oguri Cap.
"…is a speed you haven't reached yet."
"Such astonishing power earned Dicta Striker the nickname 'The Chestnut Bullet.' And because of it, at this year's URA Awards, Dicta Striker beat Sakura Chiyono O—by 15 votes—to claim Best Rookie Horse Girl."
"…A speed I haven't even reached yet?"
Oguri Cap paid no attention to the award part. She just stared at the whiteboard—at the name "Dicta Striker"—and trembled slightly, unable to contain herself.
"Alright, Kitahara. Leave her to me. At the Yayoi-sho, I'll find out whose legs are stronger."
Her voice was steady, but everyone who knew her could see—this trembling meant Oguri Cap was already in fighting mode.
Kitahara smiled, satisfied, then pointed his laser to the two lines he hadn't addressed yet and looked at Mejiro Ardan.
"Ardan, your priority remains your debut race."
"After that, depending on the result, we'll decide whether you enter the Spring Stakes or another race."
The meeting wrapped up quickly, as it mostly laid out the big picture. Specifics would be handled daily in training.
But afterward, Mejiro Ardan stayed behind.
"…What is it, Ardan? Something unclear from the meeting?" Kitahara asked curiously, then guessed:
"…It's not that, Chief Kitahara."
Smiling gently, Ardan pressed her lips together. "I wanted to ask—how far… how far am I from Oguri and the others?"
"How far?" Kitahara blinked, then noticed her state.
Though she carried herself with the refined grace of the Mejiro family, her blue-haired figure was surrounded by a faint but persistent aura of unease.
"…Are you worried about your body? That your long recovery for your fragile legs left you behind Oguri and the others in training?"
He guessed again, pulling out a neatly arranged file from his desk and sliding it toward her.
"You don't need to worry about that."
He smiled: "With Creek as precedent, Kyoko, Komiyama, and I have experience strengthening legs. Plus, Kyoko's been in constant touch with your family's medical team. We've arranged everything for your care. And thanks to those digestive supplements, you're getting plenty of nutrition every day."
"In short—you've shaken off the 'glass legs' problem. You can train fully now, with no issues."
"I've explained the data before, but if you're still worried, I can go over it again."
Ardan studied the file, then shook her head slowly, apologetically.
"Thank you, Chief Kitahara, and everyone… But no, that's not what worries me."
Her unease deepened.
"…Actually, I don't even know what I'm worried about."
She looked at the whiteboard, its words still fresh.
"I thought I was worried about my legs. But no."
"Then I thought maybe I was uneasy that Oguri and Creek get to face Chiyono and Dicta right away, while I have to wait until after debut… But that's not it either."
"I know many things are unpredictable before debut. If I lose, I'll just have to run more races. To guarantee a spot in the Satsuki-sho, avoiding Yaeno and building fans elsewhere would be best. I accept that completely."
Her brows furrowed.
"But somehow… I feel like there's still some distance between me and Oguri, Tama, Creek, Inari…"
She murmured softly:
"During the blindfold training, I was helping them, and they relied on me. That made me happy—it reminded me of taking care of my sisters back home."
"But now that the blindfold training is over, they discuss training tips among themselves, and I can't join in. I feel… uncomfortable."
"And they all lived in Kasamatsu for a while. They say they'll take me there on holiday, but when they chat about funny stories, the streets they walked, the movies they watched… I can't join in."
"…So maybe it's not discomfort. Maybe it's more like…"
She scratched her cheek shyly, awkwardly.
"Sorry, Chief Kitahara, for suddenly staying behind to say all this."
"I wanted to tell Oguri and the others, but I was too embarrassed. So I asked them in another way—if they ever felt uneasy, what would they do? And they all said—'Just ask Chief Kitahara. He always has a solution.'"
"…So I came to you."
Her purple eyes looked at him shyly, hopefully.
…Since when did I become a counselor too?
Kitahara thought wryly. Still, with his horse girl opening her heart, he couldn't refuse. He stood, buying time to think.
"How about some carrot milk? I have some here, hot. I tried it—it tasted weird, but Oguri said you all like it."
"Would you like a cup?"
Ardan blinked, then smiled gratefully.
"Yes, please, Chief Kitahara."
Kitahara brought not only carrot milk, but also a plate of cut apples.
"A little fruit before bed helps," he explained.
While preparing, he thought: Ardan's "distance" wasn't about training, but about emotional bonds. She had joined last, so despite fitting in well, she still lacked shared memories with the others. That gap made her feel left out.
But that was good—it meant she truly felt she belonged, enough to care about closeness.
And as luck had it, Kitahara had an idea for how to fix that.
"Take a look at this."
While Ardan sipped the milk, Kitahara pulled up some images on his phone and grabbed some blank paper and pens.
"This is…"
As she swiped through the phone, her eyes grew wider and wider, her purple pupils sparkling with joy.
"Aren't these Oguri and the others? So cute! Are there plushies of these?"
Kitahara, sketching on paper, chuckled without looking up."There will be."
"This is a collaboration project between Kawawan Enterprises and Nishijin Company—'Moe Monsters.' As you see, it fuses Oguri and the others with the Godzilla monster series."
"Really? How fun!"
Delighted, Ardan kept scrolling, her eyes glowing brighter. "I know Godzilla monsters! McQueen and the others don't care for it, but Ryan loves them. I watched with her a few times—pretty interesting."
"Let's see… haha, this silly one must be Oguri, right? 'Capzilla'—so funny."
"And this… Tamamo Ghidorah? With three heads? It bites with all three?!"
"Inari-don… haha, this looks just like her! Always with that cocky expression."
"And this must be Creek—Super Mothra. Chief Kitahara, you're biased! Only Creek got to be a big cute butterfly, while the others look goofy or silly, hehe."
Her laughter grew brighter. But as she scrolled further, her smile froze a little.
…Huh? There's no…
"Not for me…?"
That…
Almost in an instant, boundless disappointment eroded her heart, and she felt even sadder than before.
But before that feeling could spread, she saw a sheet of drawing paper shoved in front of her.
"…Eh? Eh? This is…"
At almost a glance, she realized it was a four-panel comic strip.
In the first panel, it showed the Capzilla, Tamamo Ghidorah, Inariton, and Super Mosra she had just seen. They appeared in a city, and from comparison, it was clear that they were as tall as skyscrapers.
In the second panel, a character resembling an alien suddenly appeared. As soon as it showed up, light shot from its hands, and then Capzilaa, Tamamo Ghidorah, Inariton, and Super Mosra had their eyes covered by something like blindfolds.
In the next panel, unable to see, the four originally cute kaiju grew anxious and angry. Veins bulged on their heads, and they began rampaging wildly, destroying skyscrapers. If one looked closely, many panicked humans and horsegirls could be seen fleeing on the ground.
In the final panel, another sudden appearance—this time a fairy. She had two pairs of wings like those often seen in fairy tales and held a magic wand.
With a flap of her wings, the alien let out a strange scream and flew away. With a wave of her wand, not only did the blindfolds disappear from Capzilla, Tamamo Ghidorah, Inariton, and Super Mosra, but they also shrank down, becoming even cuter.
This… Mr. Kitahara just drew this? Amazing. The lines were simple, but the content was crystal clear.
And moreover…
Staring at the last panel, Mejiro Ardan's eyes widened.
That fairy's appearance… looks like me?
"Sorry, Ardan. Your likeness only just got added to this project."
Kitahara's gentle voice made Ardan raise her head. Seeing her surprised gaze, Kitahara smiled.
"This project plan—I thought of it back in Kasamatsu. At that time, I wasn't thinking so far ahead, nor did I expect that you, the young lady of the Mejiro family, would join our newly founded team.
"But since you have, from now on, we are one whole.
"Perhaps you've already guessed: the fairy in this four-panel comic is you. I named her 'Mesra.'
"Just like how, during the blindfold training with Oguri Cap, Tamamo Cross, Inari One, and Super Creek, you quietly helped them—within my setting, Mesra is the fairy who can calm Capzilla, Tamamo Ghidorah, Inariton, and Super Mosra whenever they go berserk.
"I originally planned to announce this project after you all completed your first-round Central debut races. For now, you are the first among them to know about this."
Seeing Ardan's eyes go wide, Kitahara's smile deepened.
"When you win your debut race—and I believe you will—on that day we'll hold a press conference and announce this project to everyone.
"Ardan, don't overthink things. You are not alone.
"Just as CapZilla, Tamamo Ghidorah, Inariton, and Super Mosra need Mesra the fairy, Oguri Cap, Tama, Inari, and Creek need you.
"You are a member of Team Eternal, and an irreplaceable one."
When Kitahara finished softly, Mejiro Ardan stared at him blankly for a long while. Suddenly, she turned her head, rubbed her cheek with her hand, and tilted her head upward for a moment.
After a while, she turned back with a smile.
She seemed truly happy—her eyes curved into crescent moons, hiding the beautiful purple pupils within.
"Really… I don't know how to describe it. Chief Kitahara, you always come up with such unexpected ideas."
"Yes, I understand now. I feel… I don't feel uneasy anymore."
"Thank you, Chief Kitahara."
Expressing her thanks, she slowly stood, gently picked up the four-panel comic, and held it close to her chest.
"Then I won't bother you anymore, Chief Kitahara. I'll head back first. I can take this comic with me, right?"
Before Kitahara could answer, she quickly turned, almost as if afraid he'd refuse, and hurried toward the door.
Only her cheerful voice remained.
"Looks like this project is still under wraps for now. Don't worry, I won't tell anyone. I won't say a word to Oguri Cap and the others either, hehe."
"And also…
"When the project is announced, I'll definitely use this comic to show off to them."
"Chief Kitahara, remember this—keep it secret for me too."
The sound of the door opening and closing left Kitahara alone in the office.
Ah… if she really brags about it, Oguri Cap and the others will probably say I'm playing favorites.
What should I do? Should I draw one for each of them? But how could I come up with that many clever ideas? That one just now already used up all my life's creative instincts…
Smiling bitterly to himself, he shook his head and decided to stop worrying, and get back to real work.
This project plan for Mejiro Ardan had indeed been a stroke of inspiration—he probably couldn't come up with another like it.
Still, since it was derived from the recent blindfold training story of Oguri Cap and the others, he could recommend it to Nishijin Company. Even if they didn't immediately launch it, it could be revealed at the press conference. After all, the storyline was logically complete, fitting the Godzilla and cute-monster theme, and Nishijin would hardly refuse. Adding some coverage by Izumi Fujii would also be no problem.
After contacting all sides, Kitahara continued working in his office, and only after the "deadline" Oguri Cap set to remind him to rest, did he pack up, turn off the lights, and return to his dormitory.
After the heart-to-heart talk with Mejiro Ardan, this horsegirl clearly became much more enthusiastic in her training. From both direct observation and data, Kitahara could see that her performance and stats were moving steadily toward a higher win rate.
And so—it was time to discuss debut race tactics with her.
After training one day, with that in mind, Kitahara called Mejiro Ardan over.
"Ardan, for your upcoming debut race, I've decided you'll run with the front-runner strategy."
He went straight to the point: "On one hand, Oguri Cap and the others have been through blindfold training, so their sensory awareness is stronger than yours right now. Of course, after your debut, we'll adjust and have you undergo special training as well. But since the debut race usually carries less pressure, it's perfect for testing strategies."
Ardan bowed slightly.
"Yes, I understand. I'm not in a rush about that."
Straightening, she smiled gently: "Thanks to the surprise Chief Kitahara gave me that day, I don't feel any mental burden now. My training and running results also feel much better than before."
"Thank you, Chief Kitahara. You really are a good person, and an excellent trainer."
Excellent would have been enough—good person wasn't necessary… how did I end up getting "friend-zoned" out of nowhere?
Muttering silently to himself, Kitahara rubbed the bridge of his nose.
"That's good, that's good."
He glossed over it, then continued: "A debut race can be used for training—that's already been proven by Oguri Cap and Creek's actual experience."
"In Oguri Cap's debut, she was arranged to run from behind, adapting to flying dirt ahead and restraining her competitive instinct as a horsegirl."
"Dirt… competitive instinct…"
Ardan mused aloud. "Chief Kitahara, I understand adapting to dirt—it's similar to the purpose of blindfold training. But the competitive instinct part…" Her eyes showed puzzlement.
Kitahara chuckled.
"Perhaps you look gentle and kind on the surface, Ardan, but you are still a horsegirl. Think back—when running alongside Oguri Cap and the others, didn't you feel the urge to overtake?"
"…Yes, I did. Even though I felt a gap between myself and Oguri, I couldn't help but want to catch up."
After a moment's thought, Ardan nodded, then realization dawned.
"I see. If such competitiveness arises during training, it would be even stronger during a race. So by adapting to it in a lower-pressure debut race, it will affect me less in future, more intense competitions. That's the point, isn't it, Chief Kitahara?" she confirmed with some confidence.
"Correct. You're absolutely right. That's one purpose behind assigning you a front-runner role."
Kitahara nodded. "Additionally, after analyzing your data from various perspectives—myself, Komiyama, Yuzuhara, and Kyoko all agree—your best-suited running style is front-running.
"You do have some talent for escape-running, but not outstanding. So for adaptation training, front-running is better."
Mejiro Ardan nodded.
"Understood. Hanshin Racecourse debut, turf, clockwise, 1600 meters, front-runner style."
She ticked each point off on her fingers. "Track conditions will be confirmed on the day itself."
"So this is the plan for now, Chief Kitahara?"
Watching her serious, cautious attitude, Kitahara nodded with satisfaction.
"The next part concerns your special tactics."
"My tactics?"
Ardan blinked, then her face lit up with surprise. "Like Creek's tactic? That's wonderful!"
Usually so composed, she could hardly contain her joy.
No wonder—currently the most recognized tactic in Team Eternal was Creek's ." Not only Creek herself, but Oguri Cap, Tamamo Cross, Inari One, and even Ardan had partly learned it.
That tactic essentially traded stamina for control of race tempo. Creek used it best, but the others could still replicate it somewhat.
Even their "reduced versions" worked decently. In the recent Fairy Stakes and Fujimori Conditions Race, Oguri Cap and Tamamo Cross tested it lightly, with very good results.
If Kitahara meant she'd have a similar tactic, it would not only boost Ardan's debut chances but also strengthen the team overall. No wonder she was excited.
But Kitahara shook his head.
"Don't get ahead of yourself. I know you all value the Swinging Meastro tactic highly, and hope for something equally outstanding.
"But remember—every tactic has its scope of application and requires the right personal foundation.
"For instance, Swinging Maestro works only because Creek's stamina is by far the strongest among you.
"Likewise, Oguri Cap and Inari One's powerful strength forms the basis for another tactic—the final spurt. Many think finishing speed is purely talent, but that's wrong. With sufficient power, a strong final spurt can be a tactic in itself."
He gave Oguri Cap as an example.
"Her win in the Golden Youth Cup came from combining power and a finishing spurt, plus lane-switching skills. This approach can be generalized, and I am working to develop it further."
"Similarly, Tama's balance from her well-rounded ability can yield tactics. Inari One too."
"So…"
Kitahara looked firmly at Mejiro Ardan. "Ardan, your tactics must come from what you're best at—your strongest ability."
"My strongest ability…"
Her earlier disappointment was gone, replaced by deep thought. She touched her chin and mused:
"If Oguri and Inari excel in power, Tama in balance, Creek in stamina, then my strongest ability…"
As the horsegirl quickly sank into thought, Kitahara smiled knowingly and waited patiently.
After a long silence:
"…Sorry, Chief Kitahara."
Ardan looked apologetic and troubled. "I thought over every aspect I could, even reviewed the data I'd seen before—but I can't figure out what I'm good at…"
But Kitahara didn't look disappointed at all. Instead, he smiled confidently.
"That is exactly your strength."
That abrupt statement froze Ardan. Kitahara went on smiling.
"You said you just reviewed the data you'd seen before, right?
"Well, let me tell you clearly: Oguri, Tama, Inari, Creek… Creek maybe remembers some. But none of them can recall the data as well as you. They just can't.
"And wasn't it you who tutored them in their studies during blindfold training?"
Ardan blinked, then nodded.
"Yes, I was the class study rep…"
Then her eyes widened.
"Chief Kitahara—are you saying… my strength is intelligence?"
"Ah… not quite accurate."
Kitahara chuckled and shook his head. "More precisely, it's a race tactic based on mastering information."
He mentioned this idea because there was supporting theory behind it.
In advanced sports science, there was a whole system combining "wind tunnel data models" and "OmegaWave" data for simulations, nearly replicating all possible outcomes in a competition.
In another world, this system was already applied across Olympic events: diving, ball games, wrestling, weightlifting, running—all were analyzed this way.
With such analysis, one could tailor strategies for each opponent, each race, and most possible scenarios.
Though Kitahara's team didn't have such advanced tech, the mindset could still be adopted—combining data to simulate races.
Before discussing it further with Ardan, Kitahara would first talk with his team, especially Kyoko Miyamura, who had first proposed using wind-tunnel and OmegaWave modeling.
"Kitahara-san's idea is theoretically feasible."
In the office with curtains drawn and lights off, trainer Kyoko Miyamura spoke like giving a medical report. In the dim light, she pointed a laser pointer at a slide on the projection screen.
"Wind-tunnel data modeling may sound complex, but leaving aside the cutting-edge, there are already civilian devices that can be useful."
"These devices are standard in large civilian aviation companies. By chance, some of my high school classmates majored in aerospace engineering, and after graduating they entered technical departments of airlines. I talked to them about this."
She tapped her laser pointer, and the slide changed, showing five simplified figures.
The images showed silhouettes clearly in motion—running. From the outlines, everyone could tell they represented Oguri Cap and the others.
But compared to photos or video, these silhouettes lacked faces or clothing detail—like translucent glass dolls mid-run.
Their "skin" wasn't rosy-white, but pale gray. Hair and clothes were the same color.
Across their surfaces were lines streaming backward, like airflow. Closest to the silhouettes, the lines were blue, then further out turned yellow, straightening as if encountering resistance.
"This is the 'aerodynamic model' roughly simulated using aerospace data, based on Oguri Cap and the others' data I provided my friends."
Kyoko explained with some gravity.
"Note: aerospace models can only crudely approximate horsegirls' aerodynamics. There are huge differences in reality. This is reference only.
"To truly simulate, we'd need specialized databases, models, and code built specifically for horsegirl physiology.
"I asked my friends—they said some scholars are researching it, but it's not mainstream, funding is scarce, and companies rarely invest. Progress is slow."
At this, Kyoko looked toward Kitahara.
Not only her—Komiyama, Yuzuhara, and Light also turned to their chief trainer. Because of Kawawan Enterprise's involvement, they knew Kitahara had founded the company precisely to give his team better training and research conditions.
"…Don't all look at me like that."
Kitahara smiled wryly. "I admit, if I had the means to support such research, I'd discuss it with Sister Konan.
"But in reality, Kawawan Enterprise was only founded at the end of last year. Just recently we began expanding in Tokyo. The only profitable product lines are the weight-training gear, parachute sprint equipment, and merchandise of Oguri Cap and Light. Right now, we're just maintaining a solid cash flow. Funding research is beyond us for now.
"If we want to, it'll take a long time."
Hearing this, the others couldn't help showing disappointment.
Kyoko too, but she quickly rallied.
"It's fine, Kitahara-san. I just thought of it suddenly. Actually, for now, if it's only to design a tactic for Ardan, the current level of tech should be enough.
"So, let me explain carefully."
As she spoke, she turned her head toward the projection screen. With a click of the laser pointer, the slide switched to the next image.
It was clearly an aerodynamic simulation of Oguri Cap in motion. Compared to the earlier thumbnail, this image was far clearer and more detailed, showing the flow of wind—or air—in finer lines, with English letters, color gradients, and other legends marked along the edges.
Pointing at the top row of letters in the legend with her laser pointer, Kyoko Miyamura explained:
"This one—Pathliness-Oguri Cap—Oguri Cap's aerodynamic model analysis. Since Oguri Cap has competed the most, I've collected the most race data on her, so her model is the most refined. I'll use her as an example."
"Velocity Magnitude—that's the content of this diagram. Simply put, it represents the reaction of the air on Oguri Cap's body at this moment of running."
"Looking at the velocity color legend below the letters, you can clearly see that the deeper the blue, the slower the speed. Deep blue represents 0 meters per second; deep red, the fastest, represents 48.8 meters per second. This is why I said this model isn't entirely suited for horse girls—the reference values are based on aviation speeds, and many codes don't apply to them."
"Now, looking at Oguri Cap's lines, most of them range from cyan-blue to light yellow, which means her speed at this moment is about 17 to 18 meters per second—that is, sprinting."
After finishing the detailed explanation of this slide, Kyoko quickly brought up two more diagrams of Oguri Cap and sped up her introduction:
"These here are Eddy Viscosity and Static Pressure Volume Rendering analyses—the three-dimensional renderings of vortex viscosity and wind pressure levels, with units in m/s^-1 and Pa/s. The legends work on the same principle as the first diagram. You can take a look."
Once she laid out the theoretical groundwork and waited for everyone to digest it, Kyoko showed a confident smile.
"Perhaps you can't fully grasp the principles behind this data as clearly as I do, but the point I'm making should be clear."
"That is—just as I said earlier—by using these existing technologies and data, we can basically realize Kitahara's idea: to create a tactical system tailored with precision for Ardan, and even for all our horse girls!"
After Kyoko's detailed explanation, Kitahara and the others felt their confidence soar, and they immediately launched into further discussion of the new strategy.
But as training and discussion went on, they quickly discovered that—for the time being—this strategy only seemed applicable to Mejiro Ardan.
The reason for this limitation was again given by Kyoko.
"From the data gathered during past training races and the late stages of official races, we see that Oguri Cap, Tamamo Cross, and Inari One all show a slight decline in cognitive processing ability under prolonged, intense exertion. This is normal in sports, but it makes them unsuitable for precise analysis during a race."
She explained further:
"Super Creek can maintain enough analytical ability in such conditions, but even she can't rely on it too much. If her brain consumes too much oxygen, blood, and nutrients, it takes away from endurance, undermining the strategies she's better at."
"But Ardan is different."
"Though she hasn't competed in official races yet, her training data proves that her circulatory system and other physiological foundations allow her brain to remain well-supplied even under fatigue. This reduces her physical endurance somewhat, but it lets her stay calm and analytical in most situations."
"In other words, at present, this strategy suits only Mejiro Ardan."
Hearing this, the group felt a little disappointed, but not discouraged. Instead, they threw themselves even more earnestly into Ardan's special training. After all, her debut race was fast approaching, and mastering this strategy beforehand would clearly boost her chances.
Immersed in training, time flew, and in the blink of an eye it was the day of Mejiro Ardan's debut race.
The preparation room looked the same as always, filled with everyone cheering her on. What was different this time was the simple sand table set up in the center. Nine figurines shaped like horse girls were arranged on it, with the others gathered around while Ardan, deep in thought, moved the pieces about.
"…Next is No. 7, Keira. This horse girl specializes in running away early, but her runaway ability isn't particularly strong. Around the latter part of the middle section, she tends to slow down to save stamina for the final sprint, but she often misjudges the timing. If I overtake her at about two-thirds of the course, she'll likely misjudge due to nerves, making it harder for her to time her sprint."
After laying out this analysis, Ardan felt she hadn't missed anything. She picked up the blue-haired figurine representing herself and placed it inside the space next to the figurine marked "No. 7."
"That's the position where I can cut to the inside lane—and that will be my best timing to do so."
Then, picking up the piece marked "No. 8," her eyes gleamed with thought as she rubbed it between her fingers and said gravely:
"Finally, No. 8—Shishia."
"She's a bit like Oguri Cap, a horse girl with extremely strong leg power. Judging by her past performances at the academy, her specialty is also 'Pace Chaser.'"
She placed the No. 8 piece alongside her own.
"At this point in the race, she'd be about here."
"This is already near the fourth corner, about to enter the final sprint. Given her habits and the characteristics of a front-runner, she will definitely accelerate here."
"And in doing so, she'll face an unavoidable disadvantage: her powerful sprint will tilt her outward at the curve, forcing her to run extra distance."
She nudged the No. 8 piece outward a bit, then breathed a sigh of relief.
"If her leg power were as terrifying as Oguri Cap's, this extra distance wouldn't matter."
"But unfortunately—it isn't."
"Alright, that completes the race simulation. Chief Kitahara, do you think I've missed anything?"
Kitahara didn't respond right away. He glanced around, saw the others' satisfied looks, then nodded at Aldan.
"Basically no problems. This analysis, like before, will still be cross-checked against Oguri Cap, the others, and Kyoko."
Walking over, he patted her shoulder. "Of course, after this debut race."
"With this practical experience, plus further training afterward, your strategy should be complete."
Joy flickered across Ardan's face, but quickly turned to a wry smile.
"It's just a shame the training time was too short. Unlike Oguri and the others, I didn't have enough preparation. Otherwise, I might have improved even further…"
She looked a little downhearted.
Kitahara was about to comfort her when encouragement came from the side.
"Don't worry, Ardan. Kitahara already said—this strategy is yours alone. You'll definitely master it."
Oguri Cap pumped her fist excitedly in front of Aldan, then grew a bit embarrassed.
"To be honest, I kind of envy you and Creek. You both already have special strategies. Me, Tama, and Inari still don't…"
Inari, who had also been planning to cheer Aldan up, froze for a moment, then quickly pouted. She glanced at Taro and then at Kitahara.
"Hey, Arō, Chief—can't you come up with strategies for us too?"
…Come on. Strategies like this don't just fall from the sky—they take timing and accumulation…
Kitahara sighed inwardly, glanced at Taro's equally troubled face, then prepared to explain to Inari.
"Actually—"
"Hey hey hey! Inari, Oguri, you two are too much!"
Tamamo Cross cut in loudly. "With your kind of strength, do you really need strategies? Who cares about tactics—just charge straight through the finish line and it works better than anything!"
As if to redress the balance, she then turned to Komiyama and Kitahara.
"So, since I don't have any special abilities, I'm probably the weakest in all eternity. Why don't you make me a strategy instead?"
…What nonsense? Four straight wins and two graded wins in a row—you call that "the weakest"? Tama, are you serious?
Sensing that jealousy was bubbling among the horse girls because of Aldan's progress, Kitahara's head began to ache.
But before he could speak, Super Creek came to the rescue with a smile.
"Alright, don't make things harder for Kitahara-san."
She turned to him and smoothly changed the subject. "Kitahara-san, does Aldan's strategy have a name, like 'Arc Artist'?"
A name? He hadn't thought about that before, but…
After a moment's thought, Kitahara said:
"Such a precise and elegant strategy really does suit your noble-lady identity, Aldan. In terms of precision, it could be 'Race Planner.' In terms of elegance, perhaps 'Elegant Waltz.'"
"Which do you prefer, Ardan?"
"Precise and elegant… Race Planner… Waltz Maestro…"
Aldan smiled. "Both sound wonderful. Then let's compromise."
"How about 'Racecourse Waltz'? Would that be alright, Chief Kitahara?"
After the Eisei team headed off to the stands, Aldan quietly checked her equipment. When no announcement came, she paused, then walked to the mirror in the prep room.
A flawless face stared back.
Sky-blue hair, neatly braided; well-kept bangs; eyes clear as amethyst; perfectly proportioned features and soft contours.
She slowly reached out with slender, fair fingers, touching the reflection of her lips. Gazing into the mirror, she whispered:
"Sadly, you don't have the dazzling acceleration of Sister Peak…"
"Even among your younger sisters—Ryan's grit, McQueen's stamina, Palmer's free spirit… once they grow up, you may not surpass them either…"
"You don't have Oguri and Inari's monstrous strength, Tama's balance, or Creek's endurance. In all these things, you fall short…"
"But everyone is supporting you, working hard for you. You still have your own proud brilliance, your own race."
"A race where you chase your goal, your radiance, your glow."
"You can do it."
"Because you are a Mejiro horse girl, and also one of Eisei's horse girls."
Just then, the announcement rang out:
"All participants, please be ready—the much-anticipated Hanshin Rookie Stakes is about to begin!"
Like most races, the announcement echoed across nearly the entire venue, including the stands and the prep area.
Hearing it, Aldan took a deep breath, left the prep room, and walked down the tunnel toward the parade ring. On the other side, Kitahara and the others brimmed with anticipation.
Watching Ardan's debut with them today, in addition to the rest of Team Eisei, was also the reporter Izusuke Fujii.
"Thank you so much, Chief Kitahara!"
Still as overly fervent as ever, Fujii's fiery gaze seemed to burn through his thick black-rimmed glasses, straight at Oguri and the others.
"My god! Oh my god! To see up close the gray-haired monster Oguri Cap, the white lightning Tamamo Cross, the lightning fox Inari One, the reversal torrent Super Creek—all at once! I'm too, too, too, too lucky!"
Shouting their names and nicknames one by one, the reporter claimed to be addressing Kitahara but was already charging toward the horse girls.
"Stay away from my horse girls! As far as the horizon is—that's how far away you'd better be!"
Without hesitation, Kitahara grabbed his collar, yanked him back, and tossed him in the opposite direction.
Having trained for nearly a year to pass the Central Trainer exams, Kitahara rose at 4 or 5 a.m. every morning to run, drill, and lift weights alongside the horse girls. This was not just exam prep, but also necessary to keep up with their training.
A trainer didn't need to race with them, but still needed extraordinary physical ability. Without it, one couldn't handle emergencies or endure the intense demands of long-term training.
For example, back when he first met Tamamo Cross, only his half-year of physical training had saved him—he'd barely managed to pull back his hand before her bite snapped a finger.
With such a background, Kitahara now considered himself sturdy enough to throw an ordinary man like Fujii around with ease.
"Hey hey hey! Chief Kitahara! That was too much! My camera nearly broke! It's the latest Canon, you know! I saved up article fees for ages to buy it!"
Tossed hard, Fujii ignored his own condition and quickly checked his Canon hanging from his neck.
"How much is Canon paying you? Horizon Enterprises will double it if you report more on us!"
Realizing he may have gone too far in anger, Kitahara sighed and joked:
"Alright, my bad. Sorry, Fujii."
"Also, we're familiar enough by now—you don't need to be so formal. Just call me Kitahara."
Once Fujii confirmed his camera was fine, he realized what Kitahara had said. His eyes lit up instantly.
"Okay, Kitahara! No problem, Kitahara!"
Forcing a grin as if he hadn't just been tossed aside, he leaned in and said cheerfully:"So, Kitahara, since we're so close now, about me and Oguri—"
"No. Keep it up and I'll kick you out."
Kitahara couldn't help but chuckle at Fujii's opportunism. "I brought you here so you could take some good photos of Aldan. Why are you hung up on Oguri and the others?"
"Honestly, I shouldn't have invited you."
"And what's with those nicknames? I've heard 'gray-haired monster' and 'white lightning,' but what are the other two?"
He was genuinely puzzled—he'd never heard Inari One or Creek called what Fujii had said.
Meanwhile, Oguri and the others, already whispering about the reporter, perked up at the mention of the nicknames.
"Hey, Oguri, he called you a monster! Aren't you mad?"
Tamamo elbowed her playfully. "Though, honestly, I think you are a monster."
She expected Oguri to look awkward or angry—but instead Oguri nodded enthusiastically.
"Sounds great! I am a monster!"
Mimicking Tamamo's Kansai accent, Oguri bent her arms, clenched her fists, and struck a bodybuilding pose.
"Doesn't it sound powerful? ROOOAR—"
She even imitated Godzilla's roar.
"..."
Tamamo was speechless.
"Hahahaha! Tama, don't even try to understand Oguri's brain! You're already dumb enough—if you get infected by her, you'll run out of brains entirely!"
Inari, ever eager to bicker with Tamamo, seized the chance to mock her mercilessly.
"Hey! You're the dumb one! You—"
Tamamo started shouting back, but before she could finish, Inari cut her off with a hand gesture.
"Stop!"
She raised her index and pinky fingers while pinching the middle two with her thumb, forming a "fox" gesture. With the other hand on her hip, she smirked smugly.
"Didn't you hear that glasses man? I'm the Thunder Fox, Inari One! Ever heard of a dumb fox?"
"Lalalala~ Obviously I'm smarter than you, idiot!"
Tamamo's face flushed red.
"Damn it—! Inari, you—"
Again, she stopped mid-shout, this time smirking as her azure eyes rolled toward Super Creek.
"Oh my, Creek, I must thank you and Ardan for tutoring me before the class test."
Creek, smiling at the quarrel until now, blinked at being mentioned.
"Ah? Ah—don't mention it, it was nothing—"
But Tamamo didn't let her finish. Narrowing her eyes, she shot a mischievous glance at still-smug Inari.
"Too bad, we actually asked three people for help that time."
"Oguri and I studied hard and passed. But some certain idiot didn't—and has to retake the test~"
Now it was Inari's turn to blush furiously. Tamamo's words had hit home—she was the one who'd failed.
Before she could retort, Oguri suddenly straightened up and earnestly turned to Creek.
"That's right. Thank you, Creek, and Aldan too, for helping me. Otherwise I'd have failed like Inari."
Then she looked at Inari seriously. "Inari, are you confident about the retest? I passed this time, so I think I've gotten better at studying. I can help tutor you too."
"…Who asked for your help, Oguri?! You barely scraped by yourself—now you want to tutor me?!"
Inari completely lost it. "How dare you?!"
(End of chapter)