From Tokai Teio's words, and the expressions she and Mejiro McQueen wore when they exchanged glances, Anjing Zhen clearly sensed a subtle emotion. But he did not dwell on it.
Japan's racing system had been modeled after Europe and America from the very beginning.
Ever since then, whether a Horse Girl and her Trainer could win top overseas races had been one of the highest standards by which they were judged.
In recent years, the industry had placed increasing importance on Overseas Races. More and more Horse Girls were going on Overseas Expeditions, and that standard of judgment had become increasingly significant.
But judging from Past Races, anyone who wanted to make a name for herself on a stage outside Japan undoubtedly needed strength that stood at the very pinnacle of Japan.
There was no need to worry about something so far off right now. Finishing the Triple Crown before them was what mattered most.
"I understand. Just like I said before, I'll give it my full effort."
Anjing Zhen solemnly agreed once more.
"Mm. Once I hear anything, I'll tell you right away."
Giving another assurance of her own, Tokai Teio nodded. Her worklike serious expression vanished, replaced by a cheerful grin.
"Alright, we accidentally talked too much about training. Let's loosen up a little!
"Don't forget, this is Little Kita's celebration party for winning her first G1—the opening race of the Triple Crown, the Satsuki Sho!
"I propose that we raise our glasses once again... to Little Kita's victory!"
"Oh—! Cheers!"
The atmosphere became lively again.
The fresh fragrance of sushi, the sweet-and-sour scents of assorted drinks, and the sizzling of grilled Pacific saury over charcoal filled the table all at once.
The wide social circle of his own Horse Girl had turned out to be an