But she didn't really understand any of that.
To her, the only thing worth thinking about was her lifelong goal: the Triple Crown.
"That's right. If you feel nervous, try smiling."
The girl looked serious, but she was a lovable airhead underneath.
That settled it. She and Oguri Cap were the same kind of Uma Musume.
Pushing her any further would just be bullying. Zhou Yuang withdrew his hand and folded his arms.
"Is that an order?"
Bourbon looked puzzled, but she didn't immediately nod.
Instead of answering, Zhou Yuang patted her shoulder.
"It's not an order. A smile comes from the heart. Like a dream, it should be free. It might not be as precious as a dream, but you need it just as much. So... find the smile you want. Smile your own way. You can do it!"
"Yes! Biwa Hayahide, preparing to deploy!"
Bourbon nodded solemnly and walked out of the preparation room.
Unit ready. Entering the passage. Exit approaching.
Preparing to deploy!
At the edge of the stands, Zhou Yuang spotted Bourbon emerging from the competitors' tunnel. The unassuming Uma Musume, more steadfast than anyone, stepped into the parade ring and struck her pose.
"That's Biwa Hayahide, isn't it? That Uma Musume..."
"I heard her father's a trainer. She must have trained a lot since she was little, right?"
"Of course. I heard her father is..."
"There's a rumor she was originally suited to short distances and miles, but she changed trainers. Now she's aiming for the Triple Crown."
"That explains why her debut race is a mile... But why go for the Triple Crown? Can her aptitude handle it?"
The spectators had plenty to say about Bourbon. Even she probably hadn't expected this much attention.
"Uma Musume really do get all the attention in this