Clearly, the falling-out between a veteran trainer and a promising young Uma Musume had become a hot topic at the academy.
The Uma Musume were talking about it, and the trainers' circles were even worse.
By now, probably every trainer at Tracen Academy knew about Bourbon: a talent poised to become a rising star in sprint and mile races who had changed trainers over an idea no one else could understand.
"Ah, Uma Musume love to gossip wherever you go."
Sunday Silence glanced at the Uma Musume. She had seen it all before and paid them no mind.
So the pressure's on.
Zhou Yuang did not care either. The real Tracen had long since accustomed him to far worse.
As for Bourbon, the Triple Crown was almost all she could see right now. Surely she would not care about a few rumors?
"Master, task complete. Requesting permission to proceed to the next phase."
Bourbon had finished her laps and come over to Zhou Yuang.
She remained as calm as ever. Though a little breathless, she was doing far better than when she had been drenched in sweat.
In other words, Bourbon was gradually building some endurance. They could consider adding more to her training.
Bourbon stood beside Zhou Yuang, still as a statue, but her ears remained as lively as any Uma Musume's. One ear swiveled, and she turned her head to the side.
She was looking toward the Uma Musume who had been whispering earlier.
When they noticed Bourbon watching, they stopped talking and fled in embarrassment.
"Bourbon?"
Zhou Yuang spoke softly, and Bourbon turned back.
"Master, do you have instructions?"
"This bothers you, doesn't it?"
Come to think of it, not just Uma Musume but other trainers would take an interest in Bourbon's gamble, one that might ruin