"Is everything ready?"
"Just one little red flower left. There, now it's perfect."
As a final touch, Mirai attached a little red flower to Gold Ship's rump.
Of course, the flower wasn't there to look pretty. It warned everyone else that this racehorse was prone to kicking.
The force of a racehorse's backward kick was easy enough to imagine. They were strong enough to kick another horse their own size to death.
That made a warning like this essential. An accident would be disastrous.
A lot of people thought racehorses were cute, but they could be dangerous, too.
"Let's get going, then. We should be the last ones out."
Yamana Takuto glanced outside.
Most of the horses competing had already set off, but there was still plenty of time. Even walking over slowly wouldn't be a problem.
After all, the star always made his entrance last.
"It's fine. I've already walked the route several times."
Mirai patted Gold Ship, then led him outside.
Neigh-
Gold Ship called out, then followed his attendant toward the racecourse.
Sure enough.
Things were unfolding just as he had imagined.
As soon as they left the stable, they found plenty of fans waiting outside, who quickly pulled out their cameras to take pictures.
Of course, they knew the rules and didn't approach or get in the way.
Mirai nodded to them, then quickened her pace.
Behind her, Yamana Takuto hurried to catch up and took his place on the other side.
After walking at a slightly faster pace for a while, the two spotted the main group ahead. Those people and horses were clearly taking things much more leisurely.
Once they slowed down, Gold Ship's attention began wandering to his surroundings.
In response, Mirai put his hood straight on.
Although they hadn't applied to use