The midsummer morning carried a distinct, crystal-clear vitality.
Brilliant sunlight poured generously across every inch of Oi Tracen Academy, dyeing the broad, tree-lined paths in a golden hue.
It had been over ten days since the Takarazuka Kinen.
With Tamamo Cross officially crowned the "Strongest Active" in the racing world, Tracen Academy had welcomed the arrival of its annual summer vacation.
In front of the dormitory buildings, pairs and trios of Uma Musume could be seen dragging their suitcases along the campus paths.
From time to time, teammates clustered around their trainers, chattering excitedly as they anticipated the start of their summer training camp.
A brief rain shower had passed the night before.
The air now carried the fresh scent of damp grass and soil, while the steady chorus of cicadas in the distance formed the most iconic soundtrack of the season.
At the academy gates, a sleek, pearl-white luxury mid-sized bus stood parked quietly.
It was generously sponsored by Mejiro Ardan herself.
The Mejiro heiress had formally stated that since Kuroha had been invited as an honored guest to her family's private island, she would naturally extend the highest hospitality.
Therefore—every expense and necessity for Kuroha's team during this summer camp would be fully covered by the Mejiro family.
Kuroha could only sigh in appreciation.
Sometimes, knowing a rich lady really did have its perks...
On the agreed departure day, Kuroha, as the team leader, was naturally the first to arrive.
Dressed in comfortable, casual attire, he leaned against the cool side of the bus.
One hand rested in his pocket while the other tapped at a tablet, scrolling through a tightly packed checklist: professional books, custom horseshoe running shoes, various weight training gear, and a fully stocked medical kit large enough to handle almost any emergency.
His expression was its usual mix of professionalism and calm focus.
Nearby, several hired workers grunted as they moved each listed item into the bus.
This trip wasn't just about relaxing and bonding—
Freed from the constraints of the daily curriculum, it was also the perfect opportunity for self-improvement.
As such, all necessary training equipment had to be prepared.
Though truthfully...
The Mejiro family would probably have even more thorough provisions ready.
"Ahh..."
Kuroha glanced at the gear already loaded and felt a pang of regret.
If he'd known there was a rich sponsor, he wouldn't have spent his own money on all this.
But now that it was bought, he couldn't just let it sit and gather dust.
Time slipped by, and soon all luggage and supplies had been loaded.
Seeing that it was still early, Kuroha found a shaded spot to rest.
That peace didn't last long.
"Summer camp—! The ocean—! Here I come—!"
The lively cry cut through the quiet morning.
Looking up with a wry smile, Kuroha spotted a small figure racing toward him at full speed.
That familiar white crescent bang swished in the air with her stride—it was Tokai Teio.
The little bundle of energy charged forward like a cannonball, a backpack almost as big as her tiny frame bouncing on her shoulders, her face beaming with pure, unfiltered excitement.
"Teio, slow down! Don't run so fast at the academy gates..."
Following close behind, Mejiro McQueen wheeled a small, elegant suitcase.
She wore a lovely dress today—clearly having taken time to prepare—but her gentle lavender eyes were full of worry for her overactive friend.
"Morning, Teio, McQueen."
Kuroha raised a hand in greeting.
"Good morning!"
Teio dove into his arms, radiating the boundless cheer of a young girl.
McQueen, arriving moments later, tidied her slightly mussed hair before giving a polite bow.
"Good morning, Trainer."
"Trainer, are we really heading to the island right after this?"
Teio grinned.
"Of course," Kuroha said, gently pinching her cheek. "We'll have sunshine, the sea, beaches... and even hot springs~."
Hearing that, Teio hummed happily.
"I knew it would be fun! The President didn't believe me! I'm gonna take a thousand pictures—just to make her jealous!"
Kuroha chuckled.
Rudolf Symboli, the president of Central Tracen Academy, was busy even during breaks.
Even in summer, races were still being held—like Oguri Cap, who was entering a race midway through the holiday.
That "King of Champions" title wasn't just for show.
While he was still playing along with the "elementary school duo," two more familiar figures emerged from the gate.
Inari One stumbled out with a huge yawn, looking half-asleep.
Beside her, Fujimasa March looked bright and energized, carrying a stuffed travel bag.
Seeing Kuroha, Fujimasa quickened her pace.
"Trainer, is there anything I can help with?" she asked softly.
Kuroha ruffled her hair with a smile. "No need, we'll leave once everyone's here."
Before long, the last two members appeared together.
"Good morning, Kuroha-san."
Mejiro Ardan wore a simple yet graceful blue dress, her glassy blue hair shining in the morning light.
Though she still leaned on a cane, her beauty remained unaffected.
Beside her, Sakura Chiyono O waved vigorously, flashing a big grin.
"Trainer, we're here!"
And so, the summer camp group was complete.
Six Uma Musume with completely different personalities, temperaments, backgrounds, and goals stood together—forming a strangely harmonious yet striking sight.
"Ardan-nee and Chiyono-nee, you're here!"
Still in Kuroha's arms, Teio waved at them before hopping down to try and help Ardan with her cane.
Her arms weren't long enough, though, and she ended up pouting in frustration—much to Ardan's amusement.
"It's okay, Teio, I'm fine," the older girl said warmly.
"Alright, looks like everyone's here."
Leaning against the bus door, Kuroha looked at the lively group before him, his expression softening into a genuine smile.
"All preparations complete. Time to head out!"
"Yeah!"
"Let's go!"
"To the ocean!"
The girls moved quickly, chattering as they helped each other stow luggage.
Soon, the bus interior was packed, their cheerful voices blending with the morning cicadas to add a vibrant note to the journey ahead.
After one final check of the list, Kuroha signaled the driver.
With a gentle hum of the engine, the luxury bus rolled out of the academy gates—carrying a busload of youth and excitement toward their summer training camp by the sea.
(End of Chapter)
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