[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 sa 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 mbers 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 jiro Ardan together with Kyoko Miyamura and the newly-joined Mitsuhiro. anwhile, 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 establishnt of the Transcendence Team was big news, it would still be troubleso if reporters recognized them.
"Team developnt like this is still relatively rare in Japan. We were just established not long ago, and the Transcendence Team has only just ford 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 establishnt 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 cos 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 excitent. "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 mont, 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 ti 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 sa 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 an, 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 . 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 ca 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 troubleso."
"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 bood through the speakers across the entire venue. And the mont 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 seed to have a natural charisma. Fans and reporters alike beca 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 ornants 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 mory, my assigned horsegirl."
"Hi! I'm Bamboo mory! Please take care of !"
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 n 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 ters tall, dressed in a black suit and coat, he lood like a towering black iron wall. Even with glasses, he radiated intimidation instead of refinent, 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 imdiately, closing her eyes to rest.
"Mr. Konai's assigned horsegirl: Dicta Striker."
"Yo, everyone, nice to et 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 mbers on stage, including Nasse herself, had been introduced. Nasse gave a brief bow.
"I know what you want to ask."
"Bamboo mory 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 !"
"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 , wasn't Bamboo mory's arrangent a bit too hasty? She could have entered the Classic Triple Crown too!"
"Excuse , 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 ti—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 eting Chiyono O, Yaeno, and Dicta Striker on the racetrack, right?"
"She's called Nasse. If you can't rember, just call her 'big sis' instead."
Kitahara was already used to Oguri Cap's trouble rembering nas, so he casually gave that suggestion, then thought for a mont.
"We're definitely going to et them."
He analyzed: "Looking at it now, the Transcendence Team is thinking along the sa 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 extrely 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 sa 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 sa thing—Oguri Cap, Super Creek, and jiro Ardan will all be entered in different trial races to improve our chances of getting in."
Saying this, she bead 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 jiro 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"
"jiro 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 soone we're familiar with. Creek and Oguri have t 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 sa 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 co-from-behind win. So, as of now, she has four runs, three wins—including a G1, the Asahi Hai."
At the ntion 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 aning: only horse girls within their first year of full developnt 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 soday.
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 soone 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 sotis, 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 ti, 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 imdiately 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 newcor."
"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 ters 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 nickna '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 na "Dicta Striker"—and trembled slightly, unable to contain herself.
"Alright, Kitahara. Leave her to . 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 ant 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 jiro 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 eting wrapped up quickly, as it mostly laid out the big picture. Specifics would be handled daily in training.
But afterward, jiro Ardan stayed behind.
"…What is it, Ardan? Sothing unclear from the eting?" 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 jiro 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 dical team. We've arranged everything for your care. And thanks to those digestive supplents, 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 ."
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 sohow… I feel like there's still so distance between and Oguri, Tama, Creek, Inari…"
She murmured softly:
"During the blindfold training, I was helping them, and they relied on . That made happy—it reminded of taking care of my sisters back ho."
"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 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 ca to you."
Her purple eyes looked at him shyly, hopefully.
…Since when did I beco a counselor too?
Kitahara thought wryly. Still, with his horse girl opening her heart, he couldn't refuse. He stood, buying ti to think.
"How about so carrot milk? I have so 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 mories with the others. That gap made her feel left out.
But that was good—it ant 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 so images on his phone and grabbed so 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 tis—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 …?"
That…
Almost in an instant, boundless disappointnt 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 sothing 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 ti 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, jiro Ardan's eyes widened.
That fairy's appearance… looks like ?
"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 ti, I wasn't thinking so far ahead, nor did I expect that you, the young lady of the jiro 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 nad her 'sra.'
"Just like how, during the blindfold training with Oguri Cap, Tamamo Cross, Inari One, and Super Creek, you quietly helped them—within my setting, sra 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 sra the fairy, Oguri Cap, Tama, Inari, and Creek need you.
"You are a mber of Team Eternal, and an irreplaceable one."
When Kitahara finished softly, jiro 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 mont.
After a while, she turned back with a smile.
She seed 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 co 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 , 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, rember this—keep it secret for 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 co 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 jiro Ardan had indeed been a stroke of inspiration—he probably couldn't co up with another like it.
Still, since it was derived from the recent blindfold training story of Oguri Cap and the others, he could recomnd it to Nishijin Company. Even if they didn't imdiately launch it, it could be revealed at the press conference. After all, the storyline was logically complete, fitting the Godzilla and cute-monster the, and Nishijin would hardly refuse. Adding so 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 jiro Ardan, this horsegirl clearly beca 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 ti to discuss debut race tactics with her.
After training one day, with that in mind, Kitahara called jiro 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 that day, I don't feel any ntal 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 puzzlent.
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 mont'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 less in future, more intense competitions. That's the point, isn't it, Chief Kitahara?" she confird with so 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 so talent for escape-running, but not outstanding. So for adaptation training, front-running is better."
jiro Ardan nodded.
"Understood. Hanshin Racecourse debut, turf, clockwise, 1600 ters, front-runner style."
She ticked each point off on her fingers. "Track conditions will be confird 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 sowhat.
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 ant 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 astro tactic highly, and hope for sothing equally outstanding.
"But rember—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 ca 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 jiro Ardan. "Ardan, your tactics must co from what you're best at—your strongest ability."
"My strongest ability…"
Her earlier disappointnt 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 statent froze Ardan. Kitahara went on smiling.
"You said you just reviewed the data you'd seen before, right?
"Well, let tell you clearly: Oguri, Tama, Inari, Creek… Creek maybe rembers so. 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 ntioned this idea because there was supporting theory behind it.
In advanced sports science, there was a whole system combining "wind tunnel data models" and "OgaWave" data for simulations, nearly replicating all possible outcos in a competition.
In another world, this system was already applied across Olympic events: diving, ball gas, 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 OgaWave modeling.
"Kitahara-san's idea is theoretically feasible."
In the office with curtains drawn and lights off, trainer Kyoko Miyamura spoke like giving a dical 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, so of my high school classmates majored in aerospace engineering, and after graduating they entered technical departnts 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 sa 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 so 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 so 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 involvent, they knew Kitahara had founded the company precisely to give his team better training and research conditions.
"…Don't all look at like that."
Kitahara smiled wryly. "I admit, if I had the ans 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 equipnt, and rchandise 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 ti."
Hearing this, the others couldn't help showing disappointnt.
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 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 mont 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 ters per second; deep red, the fastest, represents 48.8 ters 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 ans her speed at this mont is about 17 to 18 ters 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 Volu Rendering analyses—the three-dinsional renderings of vortex viscosity and wind pressure levels, with units in m/s^-1 and Pa/s. The legends work on the sa 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 imdiately launched into further discussion of the new strategy.
But as training and discussion went on, they quickly discovered that—for the ti being—this strategy only seed applicable to jiro 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 consus 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 sowhat, but it lets her stay calm and analytical in most situations."
"In other words, at present, this strategy suits only jiro 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.
Imrsed in training, ti flew, and in the blink of an eye it was the day of jiro Ardan's debut race.
The preparation room looked the sa as always, filled with everyone cheering her on. What was different this ti 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 ti 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 glead 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 extrely 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 sha the training ti 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 encouragent ca 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. , Tama, and Inari still don't…"
Inari, who had also been planning to cheer Aldan up, froze for a mont, then quickly pouted. She glanced at Taro and then at Kitahara.
"Hey, Arō, Chief—can't you co up with strategies for us too?"
…Co 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 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 ca 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 na, like 'Arc Artist'?"
A na? He hadn't thought about that before, but…
After a mont'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 equipnt. When no announcent ca, 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 athyst; 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, Palr'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 jiro horse girl, and also one of Eisei's horse girls."
Just then, the announcent rang out:
"All participants, please be ready—the much-anticipated Hanshin Rookie Stakes is about to begin!"
Like most races, the announcent 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 brimd 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 seed to burn through his thick black-rimd 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 nas and nicknas one by one, the reporter claid 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 ergencies or endure the intense demands of long-term training.
For example, back when he first t 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 cara 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 Kitahara."
Once Fujii confird his cara 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 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 so 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 nicknas? 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.
anwhile, Oguri and the others, already whispering about the reporter, perked up at the ntion of the nicknas.
"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 rcilessly.
"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 ti smirking as her azure eyes rolled toward Super Creek.
"Oh my, Creek, I must thank you and Ardan for tutoring before the class test."
Creek, smiling at the quarrel until now, blinked at being ntioned.
"Ah? Ah—don't ntion 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 ti."
"Oguri and I studied hard and passed. But so certain idiot didn't—and has to retake the test~"
Now it was Inari's turn to blush furiously. Tamamo's words had hit ho—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 . Otherwise I'd have failed like Inari."
Then she looked at Inari seriously. "Inari, are you confident about the retest? I passed this ti, 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 ?!"
Inari completely lost it. "How dare you?!"
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