The days flashed by in an instant, and the decisive Belmont Stakes had finally arrived.
The significance of this race far surpassed the previous two.
It was not only the final battle of Myriad Dreams' overseas expedition but also the moment that would determine if she could be crowned with the supreme glory of the Dirt Triple Crown, carrying with her the immense expectations of Japan's Tracen Academy.
The eyes of the entire Japanese racing world were focused here.
Television stations broadcasted live in real-time,and the commentators' voices trembled slightly with excitement.
Inside the Student Council Room at Tracen Academy, the atmosphere was solemn.
Symboli Rudolf sat with her hands crossed beneath her chin, her sharp gaze fixed on the large screen.
Air Groove and Mr. C.B. also held their breath, the air was thick with silent tension.
In the dormitories, Yaeno Muteki gripped her phone so tightly her knuckles turned white, the screen displaying the live race feed.
She pursed her lips, her palms slick with cold sweat, as she repeated a silent prayer.
'Myriad... you have to win!'
Elsewhere, Seiun Sky had uncharacteristically skipped fishing.
She was huddled with several friends in front of the dormitory TV, eyes wide without blinking.
She muttered under her breath, "Myriad, take it! We'll have a proper celebration when you get back!"
At the racecourse, the atmosphere had reached a fever pitch.
Before entering the gates, Silver Charm walked up to Myriad Dreams.
Her face no longer showed hesitation or shyness, there was only the pure fighting spirit of a warrior and a sense of enlightened calm.
"Myriad," she spoke, her voice clear and firm. "This time, I will do as you wished and give my absolute all once again."
This was her response to Myriad's previous encouragement, and her way of settling things with her own heart.
Myriad Dreams looked at her and offered a knowing smile filled with encouragement and respect.
"That's good. I look forward to competing against you at your best."
Their eyes met.
The past tears, the comfort, the strolls under the moonlight, and that curious bet— all of it transformed in this moment into the purest flame of competition.
Before the starting gates, Touch Gold watched the two of them walking side-by-side and couldn't help but remark.
"You two have suddenly become quite close!"
She laughed, her own fighting spirit igniting.
"But I won't go easy during the race! I'm going to work hard too!"
"Of course!"
"Just what I was hoping for!"
The three of them shared a smile before their gazes turned sharp simultaneously.
They turned away and stepped into their respective starting stalls.
Under the watchful eyes of countless viewers worldwide, the massive electronic gates slowly closed.
The clamor in the stands faded, replaced by a suffocating sense of anticipation that blanketed the field.
Commentator: "Who will claim the crown of this Belmont Stakes? Let us wait and see!!"
"Racers, take your marks. Ready—"
BANG!!!
The gates of destiny slammed open!
The final chapter of the Dirt Triple Crown, the last dance of the overseas expedition, and the ultimate showdown against a transformed friend and rival, it all begins now!
A blue light flickered in Myriad Dreams' eyes as her System operated at full capacity.
Meanwhile, a silver glow shimmered around Silver Charm, her will forged like steel.
And of course, Touch Gold shot forward like an arrow from a bow, refusing to be outdone!
Commentator: "As expected of the final jewel of the Dirt Triple Crown, everyone had a perfect start! Currently in the lead is Silver Charm— it seems everyone has come prepared with their different running styles!"
Over a dozen figures surged forward like a colorful torrent, rushing toward the glorious finish line of the Belmont track!