McQueen's Dark Past

Seeing Mejiro McQueen's pained expression, Kitasan Black became even more grateful that her senior was willing to share her favorite treats.

Hearing Tokai Teio's question, she froze for a moment, then quickly turned around and thought it over. "For that question... um, let me think—right! You need to use one word, or several words, to sum up each of your dreams—oh, no, that's not it."

She hurriedly shook her head and reorganized her thoughts. "Or maybe I should ask it this way first: if you had to name the race from your careers that you were most satisfied with, the one that best represented you, what would it be?

"And then, what one word—or several words—would you use to describe what that race meant to you?"

As soon as Kitasan Black finished speaking, Tokai Teio answered without the slightest hesitation. She immediately put her hands on her hips and puffed out her chest, her voice brimming with pride. "Isn't that obvious? Of course it's the Arima Kinen!"

Then she tilted her head, her ponytail swaying as a thoughtful look appeared on her face. "As for the words—'miracle,' 'comeback,' 'indomitable'! What else could better describe that race?"

"Indeed."

In agreement, Mejiro McQueen on the other side set down her teacup and picked up the conversation with a smile, her eyes filled with nostalgia and reverence for the past. "When people speak of Teio, the first thing that comes to mind is surely that Arima Kinen that turned everything around. It was truly a magnificent race—one whose very name could stir the heart and even bring tears to one's eyes."

As she spoke, something seemed to come to mind. A trace of melancholy and emotion surfaced in her eyes, and even the corners of her eyes glimmered faintly.

But as though afraid