Hachiman's POV
Training's done, and I'm holed up in the trainer's room. Why? Digging into data on the Japan Cup contenders and studying the overseas Uma Musume. Even on our home turf, these are heavy hitters—gotta be thorough.
I've gone through all of them, at least the basics.
First, Astalabad from the USA. Only one win, the G3 André Baboin Award. American, but based in France now. Her record doesn't scream threat, but a third in the French Derby? That's a big deal. Can't sleep on her.
Next, Ebony Grove from New Zealand. She races mostly in Australia. Wins include the G1 AJC Derby, Mackinnon Stakes, and G2 Hill Stakes—three solid victories. A veteran who's run 13 races this year, some just two days apart, and still placed. Her toughness is unreal.
Ireland's stayer, Oscar Schindler, is a beast. Stamina's her weapon. She's dominated the 2800m Irish St. Leger two years running, plus the 2700m G3 Ormonde Stakes and 2400m G2 Hardwicke Stakes. Long distances are her domain.
Caitano, a British Uma Musume racing in Germany, has never missed the board in 15 races. Ten of those were at 2400m, with two wins—G1 Aral-Pokal and G2 Club Grand Prize—at that distance. She's made for the Japan Cup's 2400m.
Then there's the standout, Ireland's Pilsudski—Fine's sister. Four G1 wins: Germany's Baden Grand Prize, America's Breeders' Cup Turf, Britain's Eclipse Stakes, and Ireland's Irish Champion Stakes. The kicker? She's won G1s abroad. Overseas races mess with most—different turf, fatigue—but Pilsudski thrives, even taking America's top race. Two straight Arc de Triomphe second places? Stunning. She's our biggest threat, no doubt.
Finally, Mons from the UK. No G1 wins, like Astalabad, but never out of the placings. An all-rounder, she handles any distance or pace with ease.
"…That's the rundown," I muttered. "Surprising, though—only eight Japanese Uma Musume in the Japan Cup. Fourteen total with the overseas six. Last year was fifteen, half from abroad. Tough to predict."
Knock, knock, knock.
"Come in," I said.
"Excuse me," Air Groove said.
"Air Groove? Something up?" I asked.
"Yeah… it's about our contract from the start," she said.
…Why bring that up now?
"I know it's selfish, especially since I set the terms," she said, "but I want to change it."
"You mean the part about focusing only on training and races?" I said.
"Yes," she said. "Is that okay?"
"Depends on the change," I said.
"Here's the deal," she said. "Up to now, it's been just races and training. From now on, no limits. I want you to tell me whatever's on your mind, Hachiman."
"…What?" I said. "You're saying I should butt in on stuff outside training and races?"
"Yes," she said. "It's fine—more than fine. It feels like we can move forward that way. Your eyes… no, your words, Hachiman—I trust them."
"R-Really…" I said.
This feels… weirdly ticklish, coming from Air Groove.
"If that's what you want, fine," I said. "I'll speak up, but only so it doesn't mess with you. You're busy with student council and all."
"Thanks," she said. "So, what're you doing now?"
"Researching the overseas Uma Musume," I said. "Got the basics down, but there's more to dig into. Next is their race footage and local training sessions."
"I see," she said. "Don't overdo it, okay? If you burn out, we're done for."
"Yeah, I'll be careful," I said. "You watch your health too. Less than a month left. This week's our last push, then it's all adjustments. We go in at full strength."
"Understood!" she said.
Afterword
Air Groove's bold contract change opens her heart to Hachiman's words, cementing their partnership as they face the Japan Cup's global titans. Pilsudski's towering presence raises the stakes, while Hachiman's diligence sets the stage. The Yahari crossover fuels their trust—can they conquer the international field?
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