Time loops back, seasons turn, and spring arrives at Tressen Academy. New students flood in, and the Twinkle Series, the holy grail for Horse Girls, ushers in a new era. A time of beginnings.
"Rampage-san, it's here," Nansaka said, entering the Canopus clubroom with a package. The room buzzed with activity—preparing signs and drafts to recruit new members.
"What's that?" Turbo asked.
"My racing uniform, updated with Mejiro colors," I replied, opening the package. The white shirt now bore the Mejiro family's green accents, a simple yet significant tweak.
"The other uniform's getting a full overhaul," I added.
"The one from the awards ceremony?" Nature asked.
"Yep. Had it redesigned by Mejiro's team. Unlike this one, it's a complete rebuild. URA's designers were crushed when I requested it."
"They probably took it personally," Nature said. "Pros think they know best."
"Then they're second-rate," I shot back.
"Brutal," Turbo laughed.
This weekend, the Cherry Blossom Stakes, the first leg of the Tiara Route, loomed. Ikuno and I were set to race, with talk swirling about whether my junior championship dominance would continue.
"We'll worry about that later," I said. "Let's finish these club prep tasks. A win might draw more recruits."
"Smart!" Turbo cheered.
"Perfect pitch," Nature added.
Hanshin Racecourse pulsed with energy, far beyond the Tulip Stakes. Today was the Cherry Blossom Stakes, the true start of the Classic Grade, where new stars would shine.
"What a vibe!" Turbo exclaimed. "Everyone's eyes are sparkling!"
"It's the real deal," Nature agreed. "Everything before was just a warm-up."
In the paddock, Horse Girls radiated intensity. Turbo's cheers cut through as Ikuno shed her frock coat, revealing a sleek green-and-white design—elegant yet practical, reflecting her meticulous nature. She was third favorite, behind Rigil's Flora, despite her six wins in seven races.
"Why's Ikuno only third?" Tanhoiza asked, scanning a newspaper. "She's got more wins than Flora."
"Team prestige," Nansaka explained. "Rigil's got the reputation. Ikuno hitting third is huge for Canopus."
Then, the announcer's voice boomed: "And now, number 17 in gate 8… Mejiro Rampage! Second favorite today!"
I strode forward, chest high, whipping off my coat to reveal my uniform—green Mejiro sashes and arm stripes gleaming. "Kept you waiting!" I roared, voice low but fierce. The crowd erupted.
"Her joining the Mejiro family caused a stir," the announcer said. "Family upheaval led to her adoption by Mejiro, sparking concern. But she's clearly in top form, silencing doubts."
"Should be first," Nansaka muttered. "She's beaten Flora before."
"Run, Ran!" Turbo shouted, as the crowd's cheers drowned out the last of their worries.
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