A little while later, in the VIP section of the stands.
"...So aside from Diamond, all of you were in the same class..."
After exchanging a few pleasantries and learning about Satono Crown's relationship with the others and Kitasan Black, Aoba Recall nodded and looked at Oguri Cap with a nostalgic gaze.
"It really is... nostalgic, isn't it, Senior Oguri Cap?"
Though she still appeared as aloof as ever, Oguri Cap nodded, her mind involuntarily drifting back to the races of her own time.
Besides Aoba Recall, there had been Super Little Bay and Tamamo Cross, Inari One, Yaeno Muteki, Mejiro Ardan...
Just like Satono Crown before them, and Kitasan Black, who had already headed from the underground passage toward the starting gates, they had been friends in life and school, as well as rivals on the track.
"The seniors' races were all incredible!"
At that moment, Satono Crown spoke with both excitement and anticipation. "Oh, right, Senior Oguri Cap, my next race is the Tenno Sho Autumn.
"I have an unreasonable request—could I ask you to..."
She stopped halfway through, her expression turning awkward.
Not only her—after a brief pause, Aoba Recall and Satono Diamond also wore somewhat awkward, troubled expressions.
Only Duramente, after initially freezing as well, remained frozen, brows furrowed and eyes filled with memories.
Oguri Cap, meanwhile, looked as composed as ever.
"Tenno Sho... You want advice?"
When Satono Crown hesitated, then bit her lip and nodded, Oguri Cap gave a quick smile.
"Then I'm afraid... I'm not very suitable.
"Tenno Sho... I entered three times, and lost all three."
"B-but your performances were amazing, Senior...!"
As Satono Crown hurriedly spoke, Aoba Recall said at the same time:
"How can you say that, Senior Oguri Cap?
"The first two times, you were up against Tamamo-senpai and