The next few weeks went smoothly for Koichi.
Although he was much busier than before, he settled into the routine after a couple of days. He just needed more time to rest than he used to.
Whenever he had nothing to do, he wandered around the neighborhood of his new home and checked on the progress of the renovations.
He also went to the Training Center to ride the horses he would be racing next. They all had workout gallops scheduled during the week before their races.
Even when they did not, he took the initiative to talk to their trainers or assistants about their specific circumstances. Whatever the case, he needed to know something about his partner before going into a race.
It was the responsible thing to do for everyone involved.
Still, he spent most of his time at Megumi Mitsumori's stable, and Epiphaneia was delighted to see him visiting so often.
Megumi Mitsumori also felt that Epiphaneia's condition had clearly improved, which should make the upcoming race in Tokyo go more smoothly.
"Time really does fly."
Koichi spoke as he brushed Epiphaneia's coat.
November had arrived in the blink of an eye, and Epiphaneia was getting ready for his final workout gallop.
"You're about to start riding Gentildonna too, aren't you? I've seen her quite often during training lately. She seems to have recovered very well."
Megumi Mitsumori stood by the door as she spoke.
Gentildonna was the finest result of Koichi's partnership with the Sunday Club.
During this period, Koichi had also been getting rides on the Sunday Club's horses at Tokyo Racecourse. The horses they offered him were all quite capable.
"We've arranged it for next Wednesday, but Divine Might will have gone back to Hokkai Ranch by then."
Epiphaneia, who had been squinting contentedly,