The tension on the field gradually loosened, conversation softened, shoulders relaxed, and the children—still buzzing with excitement—were gently herded back together.
Black Caviar stepped forward first, offering a courteous bow to Orfevre and her trainer. "Thank you for allowing us to intrude on your training," she said warmly. "And for sharing such a meaningful moment with the children."
Trainer Yasutoshi waved her hands in a mild panic."N–No, not at all! If anything, I should be the one thanking you. Today was… incredibly enlightening." Her eyes flicked briefly toward Orfevre, who stood a little apart, arms folded, expression composed once more.
Black Caviar continued. "Tomorrow's the Kikuka Sho," she said. "I wish you the best of luck."
Orfevre inclined her head slightly. "Hmph. Victory is the only acceptable outcome."
A faint smile touched Black Caviar's lips. "Will Stay Gold be there?"
Orfevre clicked her tongue. "Who knows." She shrugged, irritation flashing briefly across her face. "Even I cannot predict my mother's movements. She appears when she pleases and vanishes just as easily. She doesn't answer calls, either."
Rudolf let out a soft, knowing chuckle. "That certainly sounds like her."
Black Caviar laughed quietly in agreement. "Some things truly never change."
She then turned to the children, clasping her hands lightly. "Alright. Say your goodbyes properly."
They didn't need to be told twice.
Namawa saluted so hard she nearly toppled over. "Good luck tomorrow! You're totally gonna win!!"
"You were really cool," Persian added, bowing politely. "I hope your race goes exactly how you want it to."
Lunar hesitated for half a heartbeat, then spoke clearly. "I'll be cheering for you."
Saiya pumped her fists. "Me too! As loud as I can!"
Even Anonym, a little drained but steady, met Orfevre's eyes. "…Destroy everyone."
Orfevre listened in silence, violet eyes passing over each small face. When the chorus of voices finally died down, she huffed softly—something between a scoff and a restrained sigh.
"…Very well," she said at last. "If my subjects will be watching, then I suppose I have no choice."
Her gaze sharpened, pride flickering beneath her composure. "I will live up to your cheers."
Black Caviar watched the exchange carefully.
So did Autumn Sun.
Their eyes met for a brief moment, and the same thought passed between them—unspoken, yet perfectly understood.
For all her ferocity, she's still just a young girl… one who happens to carry the weight and expectations of countless others.
Black Caviar's gaze drifted back to Orfevre, something thoughtful settling quietly in her chest.
…She's the same age as Oscietra.
The thought lingered longer than Black Caviar expected, settling somewhere quiet and reflective. As the group began to drift, she glanced back toward Orfevre—still standing tall, still carrying herself like a sovereign even now—and spoke again.
"Orfevre," she said gently, "how are your sisters doing?"
Orfevre paused, surprised just enough for it to show. Then she scoffed lightly, though there was no bite in it. "...They are well."
She lifted a hand, ticking them off almost unconsciously.
"Gold Ship is… Gold Ship," she said, a corner of her mouth twitching despite herself. "As loud and unruly as ever. She refuses to mature, and yet—" a brief pause "—she wins regardless. Infuriating."
Black Caviar smiled faintly. "I certainly saw that myself earlier."
"Festa remains relentless," Orfevre continued. "Always chasing horizons no one else seems able to see. I find that… admirable."
Her tone softened further as she went on.
"Oru—Dream Journey—worries too much," she said quietly. "But she always has. She watches over us all more than she realizes. No… perhaps she realizes it perfectly."
Then her gaze shifted, just slightly, and warmth slipped through her composure.
"And Fenomeno is growing strong," she added. "She ran well recently."
A pause.
Orfevre clicked her tongue. "Though, of course, that woman missed her birthday again."
Black Caviar tilted her head. "Stay Gold?"
"Hmph." Orfevre crossed her arms. "Off wandering somewhere, no doubt. She sent a message days late, blaming the mountains for the delay."
Then, more quietly—almost begrudgingly fond—"…At least she remembered at all."
Black Caviar listened, something in her chest loosening.
So they grew up loved anyway, she thought. Even with distance. Even with absence. Even with a parent who drifts like the wind.
Stay Gold really is something special.
Her gaze dropped briefly to her hands as the thought turned inward.
Unlike me… they don't resent her. They're whole. They're strong. They laugh.
Maybe that's what being a great parent truly is—not perfection, but leaving enough warmth behind that your children can still grow.
A small tug pulled her from her thoughts.
"Aunt Nel," Lunar said softly, fingers curled around Black Caviar's sleeve. "Let's go. Everyone's already moving."
Black Caviar blinked, then smiled—a little ruefully, a little fondly. "Ah… right."
She let Lunar take her hand as they caught up with the others. Ahead of them, the group clustered together, voices overlapping, laughter spilling easily into the evening air.
Black Caviar squeezed Lunar's hand just a little tighter.
For all my failures, she thought, I'll make amends with this.
They walked together all the way to the academy's front entrance, the late evening light stretching long shadows across the stone path. The excitement of the day had softened into something calmer now—tired legs, lighter voices, bed in mind.
Up ahead, they spotted Tazuna first—specifically, the familiar green of her uniform—as she stood near the gate, clipboard tucked under one arm while she reviewed something with her usual diligence.
"Ah—Tazuna," Black Caviar called.
Tazuna looked up, surprise flickering across her face before easing into a warm smile. "Oh! You're back already?" Her gaze moved over the group, taking in their expressions. "Are you heading out now?"
Black Caviar nodded politely. "Yes. We've accomplished what we came to do, and the day's getting rather late. I wouldn't want us to intrude any further."
Tazuna smiled, understanding immediately. "Of course. I'm glad you were able to enjoy your visit."
Rudolf stepped forward, hands folding neatly behind her back. "Then this is where we part for today. I'll be remaining at the academy."
Air Groove moved to stand beside her, giving a quiet nod in agreement.
Black Caviar bowed deeply. "Once again, Rudolf—thank you. For the invitation, for today, and for allowing the children to experience all of this."
She turned to Air Groove as well. "And thank you for guiding us throughout the academy. We couldn't have asked for a better escort."
Autumn Sun followed immediately. "We're truly grateful."
Written Tycoon gave a sharp, respectful nod. "Thank you for your hospitality."
More Than Ready grinned. "Yeah—this was awesome."
I Am Invincible added more quietly, but sincerely, "Thank you."
Rudolf waved it off with an easy smile. "It was nothing, really. I'm simply glad the children had a happy time."
Beside her, Air Groove's expression softened into a small, genuine smile of her own.
Before either of them could say more, there was a sudden tug.
"C'mon!" Namawa said brightly, grabbing Lunar's wrist and practically dragging her forward. "We gotta say thank you properly!"
Before Lunar could protest, Namawa had already thrown her arms around Rudolf—and Air Groove by extension—pulling them both into an enthusiastic hug.
"H-Hey—!" Air Groove stiffened, then flushed, clearly unprepared for the sudden contact.
Saiya immediately joined in, wrapping her arms around them too. "Thank you, Miss Rudolf! Thank you, Miss Air Groove!"
Anonym hovered for a moment, uncertain—until Persian gently took her hand and tugged her closer, coaxing her into the embrace with a quiet smile.
Invincible Caviar lingered at the edge, cheeks faintly pink. She was older than the others; she knew that. After a brief, visible hesitation, she huffed softly and stepped forward anyway, joining the group hug with stiff but unmistakable sincerity.
Air Groove's blush deepened, but she didn't pull away.
Rudolf, on the other hand, froze for a moment—then slowly relaxed, her arms lifting just enough to return the embrace. A deep, warm smile spread across her face, unguarded and radiant.
Ah… how wonderful, she thought.
I truly miss when Teio was a sweet filly just like this…
After the special goodbye session, they made their way back toward the bus as pne by one, they passed Tazuna.
Autumn Sun offered a gentle nod. Written Tycoon gave a short wave. More Than Ready flashed a grin and a thumbs-up. I Am Invincible followed, smiling as she went. Invincible Caviar inclined her head with reserved courtesy.
Namawa, of course, ignored all restraint.
"Tazunaaa!" she chirped, darting forward to wrap her arms around Tazuna's waist in a quick, enthusiastic hug before skipping off again.
"Me too!" Saiya echoed, hurrying after her and hugging just as tightly. "Thank you for today!"
Tazuna laughed, startled but clearly delighted. "You're welcome—both of you. Be careful on the bus, alright?"
Anonym and Persian stopped together a few steps later. They bowed in unison.
"Thank you," Persian said softly.
Tazuna smiled and reached out, resting a hand on each of their heads.
Then Black Caviar approached, Lunar walking quietly at her side.
Lunar slowed.
She hesitated, fingers curling lightly into the hem of Black Caviar's sleeve before letting go. Slowly, shyly, she looked up at Tazuna—golden eyes searching, earnest.
Tazuna's breath caught. "…Goodbye, Lunar," she said softly.
Before she quite realized what she was doing, she knelt down and opened her arms.
Lunar stiffened for just a second, surprise flashing through her—but then she stepped forward and returned the embrace, small arms wrapping around Tazuna's shoulders.
"Goodbye… Miss Tazuna," Lunar said quietly.
They stayed like that for a brief moment, something tender and aching passing between them, before gently pulling apart.
Black Caviar bowed her head. "Truly, Tazuna—thank you. For arranging the visit, for your patience… for everything today."
Tazuna waved her hand quickly, but her smile wavered. "It was nothing, really. And… if I'm honest," she admitted, voice softening, "it wasn't entirely selfless. Perhaps even unprofessional." Her eyes dimmed, old sorrow surfacing. "I did it because I wanted to help the child of an old friend."
Lunar listened quietly.
She really does miss Momma…
"…Um," Lunar said suddenly..
Lunar clasped her hands together, then looked up—not just at Tazuna, but briefly at Black Caviar as well, seeking permission.
Black Caviar understood instantly.
She smiled gently. "Tazuna," she said, "we'll be visiting Guair's grave the day after the Kikuka Sho. If you'd like… we would be honored if you joined us."
Tazuna froze.
For a moment, words failed her. Her thoughts leapt instinctively to responsibility—to schedules, obligations, duties.
My duties…
A hand settled on her shoulder.
"You should go," Rudolf said calmly, her voice steady and kind. "Worry less about your duties. I'll gladly take over whatever needs handling."
Tazuna turned, stunned. "Rudolf—"
Before she could finish, Lunar tugged gently at her sleeve.
"I'm sure Momma misses you just as much as you miss her," Lunar said softly, looking up at her. "If you came… I think she wouldn't feel so lonely anymore."
That was all it took.
Tazuna's composure crumbled. Tears welled in her eyes, blurring her vision as she pressed a hand to her mouth, shoulders trembling.
"…I'd like that," she whispered, voice breaking. "Very much."
She bowed deeply to Rudolf. "Thank you."
Rudolf only smiled and waved it away. "Think nothing of it."
As the bus doors hissed open and everyone began to climb aboard, Lunar paused on the steps and glanced back one last time.
Tazuna was still there, dabbing at the corners of her eyes—yet smiling all the same.
Just a little longer, she thought, pressing her fingers together as if holding onto the feeling. I can't wait to see you again… Guair.
The bus pulled away soon after, carrying precious feelings into the quiet of the evening.
-
By the time they arrived at the manor, night had fully settled in, stars scattered faintly above the estate grounds.
Autumn Sun was the first to step down from the bus, careful and deliberate so as not to wake the small weight in her arms.
Anonym slept soundly against her shoulder, cheek nestled into the fabric of Autumn Sun's coat, breath slow and even. Whatever strength she had forced out earlier was long spent—now that the tension had faded, her body had simply surrendered to rest. Autumn Sun adjusted her hold without thinking, one arm firm around her back, the other securely supporting her legs.
"She didn't even make it halfway back," More Than Ready said with a tired chuckle as she stepped down behind them, rubbing the back of her neck. "Guess she really burned through everything she had."
Autumn Sun smiled softly. "She did well." Her voice dropped, protective. "She can sleep."
More Than Ready lifted a hand in a lazy wave toward the others. "I'm turning in too. Night, everyone."
Her steps slowed as she followed Autumn Sun inside, fatigue finally claiming her as the manor doors closed quietly behind them.
Namawa hopped down next—and immediately yawned, mouth opening wide with absolutely no attempt at restraint.
A palm gently covered her mouth mid-yawn.
"At least have the decency to hide it," Invincible Caviar said, her tone mild but unmistakably pointed.
Namawa blinked, then laughed sheepishly behind the hand. "Mmm—sorry…"
I Am Invincible let out a soft chuckle and stepped in behind her, resting her hands lightly on Namawa's shoulders. "Come on~ Let's head to bed. Tomorrow's going to be tiring too."
She guided Namawa forward, the two of them disappearing into the manor together, their voices fading as they headed straight for their room.
Written Tycoon descended next, posture composed as ever, Persian walking quietly at her side. Saiya followed—until she suddenly stopped.
She turned.
Then, without warning, she darted back and threw her arms around Lunar's waist.
"I wanna sleep with Lunar and Mom today," Saiya declared, cheeks puffed as she buried her face into Lunar's shoulder.
Lunar stiffened for just a heartbeat, surprise flickering across her face—then her body moved before her thoughts could catch up. Her arms lifted naturally, settling around Saiya in a secure, familiar embrace. There was no hesitation this time.
Written Tycoon pinched the bridge of her nose. "Saiya," she said patiently, rubbing her forehead, "you know there's only one bed in that room. Do you really think it can fit three people?"
Saiya pouted harder, turning her face away from Written Tycoon entirely and pressing it deeper into Lunar's shoulder in stubborn protest.
Black Caviar, who had been watching quietly, stepped forward and gently patted Saiya's head.
"It's fine," she said evenly. "The bed is plenty big. It can easily fit all three of us."
Saiya's mood flipped instantly.
Her head snapped up, eyes shining. "Really?!"
Written Tycoon let out a slow, resigned sigh. "You spoil her far too much."
Black Caviar smiled—soft, but resolute. "She's had enough things go against her wishes these past two days. Let her have this. It's just sleeping—and I'll take care of her."
Written Tycoon hesitated… then finally relented. "Fine. But I'll come by later to make sure she takes her medicine."
Saiya froze.
Color drained from her face.
"…E-Eh?"
Persian covered her mouth, clearly amused, as Saiya clung even tighter to Lunar—already dreading the knock that would inevitably come later that night.
-
"Saiya. Medicine."
Saiya bolted upright in the bed. "N–No—!"
Too late.
Written Tycoon was already there, standing at the bedside like an executioner in silk—small cup in one hand, glass of water in the other, expression calm and utterly merciless.
"Open," she said.
Saiya clamped her mouth shut so hard her cheeks puffed out, eyes squeezed tight as she shook her head with frantic determination.
Written Tycoon sighed. "Don't make this harder than it needs to be."
Saiya attempted to roll away.
Written Tycoon caught her.
What followed could only be described as an extremely one-sided struggle.
"No—! Aunt Tycoon—! I'll take it later—mmph—!"
Written Tycoon pinched her cheeks just enough to pop her mouth open and tipped the spoon with clinical precision. Saiya sputtered, flailed, and kicked uselessly under the blankets as Lunar stared in stunned silence.
"There," Written Tycoon said calmly, already offering the water. "Swallow."
Saiya glared at her with betrayal burning in her eyes but obediently drank, shoulders slumping in defeat.
"…You're so cruel," Saiya muttered hoarsely.
Written Tycoon straightened, smoothing her sleeves. "Medicine is cruel only to those who refuse it." She turned toward the door, then paused. "Go to sleep. And no nonsense."
Saiya immediately dove under the blankets the moment the door closed, curling up into a tight lump.
Lunar let out a small laugh she hadn't meant to make.
A muffled voice emerged from beneath the covers. "…Is she gone?"
"Yes," Lunar said gently. "She's gone, silly."
The blanket slowly lowered.
Saiya peeked out.
And immediately froze.
Lunar's face was right there, hovering close — calm, curious, softly lit by the bedside lamp. Her grey and silver hair framed her face loosely, pale gold eyes warm and attentive.
Saiya forgot how to breathe.
For a second too long, she just stared.
Her mind filled with a completely unhelpful thought, She's really pretty…
Saiya's face turned red instantly.
She yelped, yanked the blanket back over her head, and disappeared again.
"I-It's hot!" she blurted out. "…No—cold! I mean cold!"
Lunar blinked, confused. She glanced around the room.
It feels warm to me… she thought. Saiya must be sensitive to the cold.
She tilted her head, then smiled faintly as an idea formed.
Without another word, Lunar slipped under the blankets too.
Saiya stiffened like she'd been struck by lightning.
Before she could react, Lunar gently wrapped her arms around her, drawing her in—secure, careful, unmistakably warm. Their legs tangled naturally, tails brushing as Lunar held her close, steady and protective.
"There," Lunar murmured softly. "This helps."
Saiya's brain immediately ceased all higher functions.
Everything was suddenly too much—the shared warmth, Lunar's slow breathing against her, the way their bodies fit together beneath the covers. Her thoughts scattered in every direction at once, racing so fast she was certain not even Secretariat herself could keep up.
"My old house didn't have heaters," Lunar continued quietly, voice calm and sincere. "On cold nights, Momma and I would cuddle like this to stay warm. I thought… maybe it'd help you too."
Saiya heard the words.
She just couldn't respond.
Her thoughts were racing so fast she was sure not even Secretariat herself could keep up.
"I—It's too hot now," Saiya blurted suddenly, voice muffled and flustered. "Really hot!"
Before Lunar could respond, Saiya wriggled free of the covers and popped upright, gulping in air as if she'd narrowly escaped drowning. Her face was still bright red, ears flicking restlessly.
Lunar blinked, then nodded without question. "Okay then."
She released her easily, the warmth lingering between them as Saiya shuffled back a little, fanning her face.
Lunar smiled anyway—soft, amused—and reached out to give Saiya a gentler hug this time, looser and less enveloping. Saiya stiffened for half a second… then relaxed, letting it happen.
From across the room, Black Caviar laughed quietly.
It wasn't loud—just a low, fond sound, touched with genuine amusement as she watched the two of them fumble through the moment with all the clumsiness in the world.
She stood from the small office table, stretching her arms. "Alright," she said softly. "Sleep time?"
Both heads nodded almost immediately.
Black Caviar moved about the room with practiced ease—switching off the lamp, letting darkness settle in gently rather than all at once. She crossed to the window and slid it open just enough for the night air to slip inside.
A cool breeze rolled through the room.
Saiya shivered.
Almost instantly, Lunar shifted closer again, instinctive and careful, wrapping her arms around Saiya once more—this time lighter, more protective than enclosing.
This time she didn't resist.
She leaned back into the warmth instead… and hugged Lunar back.
Black Caviar returned to the bed last, slipping in behind Saiya and drawing both girls close with one arm draped over them—broad, steady, unmistakably safe.
"Goodnight," she murmured.
"Goodnight," Lunar replied quietly.
"…Night," Saiya whispered.
Wrapped between Lunar's warmth and her mother's embrace, Saiya's breathing slowly evened out.
This feels… really safe, she thought drowsily.
Mom's arm was solid and warm over her, Lunar's hold gentle at her front—like nothing could reach her here, like nothing bad could happen as long as this moment lasted.
I hope… her thoughts softened, drifting, I hope we can stay like this forever.