Strange Man and Strange Bird

"This is Starlit World..."

Watching the dark bay mare slowly step down from the horse transporter's rear compartment, Kikuchi let out a sigh of admiration.

The private sale had been finalized.

Since it was a private transaction, there was no need to handle the numerous transfer procedures required at an auction. Shadai Farm had even dispatched a horse transporter that very afternoon to deliver Starlit World to Nishiken Farm.

Seemingly curious about the unfamiliar surroundings, Starlit World kept shaking her head and looking around after getting off the vehicle.

After seeing off Shadai Farm's staff, the gathered employees followed behind Asayama, who held the lead rope, toward the stables while discussing the farm's newest member.

"So she was barren... Seventy million yen was still expensive, Boss."

Ravide's familiar sigh drifted through the air.

"She's a rare and valuable mare, after all. The veterinarian also said she's in excellent physical condition. If she conceives this year, she'll probably produce a fine foal."

The moment those words fell, Kikuchi and Rachel Ho, walking nearby, instantly wore subtle expressions.

Even Arian let out an "Ugh."

"Boss... he's starting again, isn't he?"

Several overlapping sighs followed.

Although he wanted to say they were overreacting, considering the stallion choices the Advisory Team might suggest, he silently swallowed his rebuttal.

They crossed the gravel path and entered the stables.

As though they had sensed the arrival of a new member, horses poked their heads out from stalls on both sides. Even Anna and Moon Shadow, who had seemed to be whispering to each other through the fence, cast curious looks their way.

As they passed one stall, Dober, who had been dozing with her eyes half-closed, slightly raised her head. Her ears turned like radar receiving a signal.

Stopping there, Zepp introduced the newcomer while sidestepping