A Summer of Rest, an Autumn Departure

The post-Derby victory celebration was held at a Japanese restaurant in Azabu-Juban, recommended by old Mr. Nishiyama.

It was not as though they had expected to win the Derby from the start, or had held that much confidence. It was simply meant to reward everyone involved for their hard work during the first half of the year.

After the winner's circle and award ceremony, they returned from Fuchu, where Tokyo Racecourse was located, to the city. By the time they finally arrived at the restaurant, the head chef was already waiting at the entrance.

"Congratulations, President Kitano."

The smiling chef led the way, guiding them into an elegantly furnished Japanese-style room.

A long, low banquet table stood in the middle of the roughly four-and-a-half-tatami room.

Aside from the traditional paintings used as decoration, a banner reading "Congratulations on Your Derby Victory" hung on the wall.

If he remembered correctly, it should have read, "Congratulations on Your Derby Entry."

"I've always supported Mr. Nishiyama's horses, but I was cheering for Mejiro this year's Derby too."

"That Mejiro Impetus, her finishing kick really was incredible."

After saying that, the chef began his work with unhurried ease, casually responding to the occasional remarks from the stable's associates.

Bright lights, a quiet atmosphere.

For people accustomed to the noisy environments of izakayas and fast-food restaurants, it was a somewhat unfamiliar world.

Before long, the appetizers to accompany the drinks were brought out first.

Ravide's family had non-alcoholic champagne, while everyone else had Nagano junmai ginjo. They raised their glasses, then began helping themselves to the food.

"So, starting with that," Sugiyama suddenly lifted his head from his seat, looking excited.

"You're going to the Arc, right?!"

Though he had vaguely expected something like this, Sugiyama's sudden suggestion still caught him off guard.

Rather than