April 22.
The campus slept.
Deep.
Undisturbed.
Time—
1:45 AM.
The lights across Tracen Academy were mostly out. Hallways sat in silence, the usual energy replaced by stillness. Even the wind felt quieter at this hour, brushing gently against windows and rooftops without urgency.
But not everyone was asleep.
Inside the Ritto Dormitory—
A faint light remained on.
Silence Suzuka's room.
Suitcases stood upright near the door.
Zippers closed.
Tags attached.
Ready.
This wasn't a short trip.
Ahead of them—
Nearly a full day of travel.
Two flights.
A long haul across continents.
Japan—
To France.
First stop:
Charles de Gaulle Airport
Then—
A connecting flight south.
To—
Nice Côte d'Azur Airport
Suzuka stood in front of the mirror.
Adjusting her turtleneck.
Fingers smoothing the fabric along her collar.
She checked her reflection once.
Twice.
Then—
A small smile.
Behind her—
Special Week was still struggling slightly with her coat.
Pulling at the sleeves.
Adjusting the fit.
Fixing it again.
Suzuka turned.
"Ready, Spe-chan?"
Special Week raised a finger quickly.
"W-Wait—just a second!"
She tugged at the coat again, shifting it into place.
Adjusted the collar.
Straightened the front.
Then—
She smiled.
"Okay! Got it!"
Suzuka chuckled softly.
"Good."
She tilted her head slightly.
"You've got everything, right?"
A small pause.
"Boarding pass, passport… essentials?"
Special Week nodded quickly, stepping toward her bed.
Her sling bag rested neatly on top.
She picked it up and held it up slightly.
"All here!"
She tapped the side.
"Wallet, passport, boarding pass, tickets—everything."
Suzuka nodded once.
Her eyes briefly shifting to Special Week's luggage.
"And you packed enough?"
A slight narrowing of her gaze.
"At least three weeks' worth of clothes?"
A pause.
"And your G1 race outfit?"
Special Week nodded again.
"Yep!"
Suzuka exhaled quietly.
"Good."
She turned slightly, glancing toward the window.
"The last thing we need is you running out of clothes mid-trip."
Special Week looked at her luggage again.
Then back at Suzuka.
"…Why are we bringing our G1 suits though?"
Suzuka answered without hesitation.
"Because we're staying beyond the Historic Grand Prix."
She crossed her arms lightly.
"The Monaco Grand Prix is two weeks after."
Special Week nodded.
"Ahh…"
Then—
She started counting on her fingers.
"…One… two… three… four…"
She paused.
Looked up.
"…Will our cars even fit all our luggage?"
Suzuka blinked.
Then laughed softly.
"Did you forget?"
Special Week tilted her head.
Suzuka smirked slightly.
"McQueen's Century."
A pause.
"And Nice Nature's GR Corolla."
Recognition hit.
"…Oh."
Suzuka shook her head lightly.
"Those two have the only truly practical cars among us."
Special Week raised her hand slightly.
"…What about mine?"
Suzuka laughed again.
"Your Eight-Six?"
She tilted her head.
"Half roll cage."
"Bucket seats."
"Four-point harness."
A small pause.
"…Not exactly practical."
Special Week scratched the back of her head.
"…Really?"
Suzuka nodded.
"Really."
Special Week blinked again.
"I thought it was practical…"
A small gesture.
"It has a big trunk."
Suzuka slipped her hands into her pockets.
"And what does your mom think about it?"
Special Week froze for half a second.
Then answered.
"She thinks it's nice I have my own car."
A pause.
"…She doesn't know how modified it is though."
Suzuka chuckled quietly.
"She'll find out eventually."
Special Week waved it off.
"Yeah… eventually."
Knock. Knock.
The sound echoed through the room.
Suzuka turned immediately.
Walked to the door.
Opened it.
Standing outside—
Luggage already packed and lined neatly behind them—
Symboli Rudolf
King Halo
Forever Young
Forever Young raised a hand.
"Hey."
A small grin.
"You two ready?"
Suzuka glanced back over her shoulder.
"Spe-chan?"
Special Week grabbed her luggage handle with one hand, duffel bag in the other.
"Ready!"
Suzuka turned back and nodded.
"We're good."
She stepped out, reaching down to pick up her own suitcase and bag.
The pair exited the room.
The door closed behind them with a soft click.
The hallway stretched out ahead.
Quiet.
Dimly lit.
But now—
Filled with movement.
Because this wasn't just another trip.
This was departure.
And the road ahead—
Didn't lead to mountains this time.
It led across the world.
The group moved through the dormitory halls.
Quiet.
Almost eerily so.
The usual sounds—footsteps, chatter, doors opening and closing—were gone. In their place was only the soft echo of their own movement. Rolling luggage wheels hummed gently against the polished floor, breaking the silence in a steady rhythm.
Click.
Roll.
Step.
Dim lights lined the corridor, casting long shadows behind them as they walked.
Special Week glanced sideways toward Symboli Rudolf, her grip tightening slightly on the handle of her suitcase.
"I'm really looking forward to this trip, Kaichou."
A small smile formed.
"It's my first time leaving Japan."
Rudolf nodded, returning the smile.
"There's something special about that first journey."
Her voice was calm. Reflective.
"It's been a while since I've traveled abroad myself…"
A slight pause.
"…but it's always good to see more of the world."
Her gaze shifted ahead—
Then slightly to the side.
Toward Forever Young.
"I'm sure you can relate."
A faint smirk.
"Right, Yanko-kun?"
Forever Young nodded without hesitation.
"Yep."
She lifted a hand, sweeping it lightly through the air in one smooth motion—like clearing a window.
"The world's a big place."
A small grin followed.
"And it's waiting for you to explore it."
She glanced at Special Week—
Then winked.
"And trust me—seeing places in person?"
A short chuckle.
"Way better than anything you've imagined."
Special Week's eyes lit up.
Practically sparkling now.
She leaned slightly closer.
"What's it like in Dubai, Yanko-san?!"
Forever Young laughed softly.
"Hot."
A beat.
"Very hot."
She smirked slightly.
"But the people there?"
A small nod.
"Super welcoming."
She raised a finger.
"And the Burj Khalifa…"
A pause.
"…that thing is terrifying if you're scared of heights."
Special Week tilted her head.
"…Are you scared of heights?"
Forever Young shook her head immediately.
"Nope."
A grin.
"Not even a little."
The group continued walking.
Ahead—
The elevators.
Steel doors reflecting the soft hallway lighting.
Waiting.
Their footsteps slowed as they approached.
Luggage wheels coming to a stop.
For a brief moment—
They stood there together.
Between departure—
And everything that would follow.
Moments later—
They were outside.
The cool air of early morning greeted them as they stepped out of the dormitory building. The sky was still dark, just barely beginning to lighten at the horizon. Streetlights remained on, casting a soft amber glow across the parking lot.
Waiting for them—
Two cars.
Engines idling quietly.
A presence of contrast.
The refined, understated silhouette of Toyota Century.
And beside it—
The compact, aggressive stance of Toyota GR Corolla.
Near the Century—
Mejiro McQueen stood with composed posture, arms loosely folded.
Beside her—
Maruzensky and King Halo were mid-conversation.
McQueen let out a small chuckle.
"It'll be good for you."
She glanced toward Maruzensky.
"To experience proper Formula One up close."
She raised a finger slightly.
"But remember—Monaco isn't just any circuit."
A pause.
"It's… refined."
Her gaze sharpened just a bit.
"Carry yourself accordingly."
Maruzensky laughed lightly.
"Oh, please."
She struck a quick, confident pose—one hand on her hip.
"I'm always elegant."
A wink.
"Am I not?"
McQueen smirked.
"I should've given you some Mejiro etiquette lessons."
A soft chuckle.
"Just in case."
King Halo let out a short laugh.
"No need."
She placed a hand over her chest.
Proud.
"Because I already embody perfection."
Nearby—
Nice Nature raised a hand, pointing at herself.
"…What about me?"
McQueen didn't hesitate.
"You?"
A smirk.
"No sense of etiquette whatsoever."
Nice Nature froze.
"…Huuuh?!"
McQueen pointed toward her car.
"Your Gallardo alone disqualifies you."
A slight tilt of her head.
"That cold start can be heard across the entire campus."
She tapped her temple lightly.
"And you're far too casual."
A small pause.
"You were a cheerleader, after all."
Nice Nature groaned, rubbing her face.
"You really didn't forget that…"
McQueen shook her head, smiling faintly.
"Not a chance."
She turned—
Noticing movement.
The others approached.
Symboli Rudolf
Silence Suzuka
Special Week
Forever Young
Maruzensky smirked.
"Looks like we're delayed."
Rudolf shook her head calmly.
"Not at all."
A small glance at the time.
"We're right on schedule."
McQueen gestured toward the rear of both cars.
"I can take three more pieces of luggage."
A nod toward the GR Corolla.
"Load the rest there."
Rudolf nodded once.
"Understood."
The group split into motion.
Suitcases rolled.
Zippers brushed lightly against fabric.
Hands lifted, positioned, adjusted.
At the GR Corolla—
Rudolf guided Special Week's luggage into place, stacking it efficiently within the hatch space. Each bag positioned to maximize room without shifting during transit.
At the Century—
Forever Young and Special Week worked together, lifting luggage into the trunk alongside Maruzensky's belongings.
The space—
Spacious.
Deep.
Designed exactly for this.
Forever Young reached up, pulling the trunk lid down.
A firm push.
Thump.
On the other side—
Rudolf lowered the GR Corolla's hatch.
Thud.
Everything secured.
Forever Young snapped her fingers once.
"We're good."
McQueen nodded.
"Alright."
She stepped slightly aside.
"Choose your rides."
Forever Young raised her hand.
"Shotgun."
King Halo gave a small nod.
"I'll ride along as well."
Maruzensky laughed.
"As long as I don't have to listen to Rudolf's jokes."
Rudolf raised an eyebrow.
"…They're not that bad."
Maruzensky wagged a finger.
"If only you could hear them from our perspective."
Nice Nature chuckled.
"So that means…"
She pointed between them.
"I've got Suzuka, Spe-chan, and Rudolf?"
McQueen nodded.
"That's how it works out."
Nice Nature sighed dramatically.
"Alright, alright."
She stretched her arms slightly.
"Let's get moving before you all miss your flight."
Doors opened.
Seats taken.
In the GR Corolla—
Rudolf, Suzuka, and Special Week settled in.
Seatbelts clicked into place.
In the Century—
Forever Young took the front passenger seat.
King Halo and Maruzensky in the rear.
Engines—
Already warm—
Responded immediately.
The two-car convoy rolled out.
Leaving the dorms behind.
Heading toward—
Haneda Airport.
The first step of a journey—
That would take them far beyond Japan.
Ten minutes passed.
The city had woken—just barely.
The convoy had already merged onto the expressway.
The Shuto.
Streetlights streaked past in long, repeating intervals. Overhead signs glowed faintly in the early morning dark, guiding traffic that was still sparse at this hour.
The road was open.
Flowing.
Inside the Century—
Everything felt different.
Quiet.
Insulated.
The outside world reduced to a distant hum as the V12 carried them forward with effortless smoothness.
No strain.
No vibration.
Just motion.
In the rear seats—
Maruzensky leaned slightly forward, resting an arm along the center console as she glanced around the interior.
"…Didn't know you had a taste for classics, McQueen."
Up front, Mejiro McQueen kept her eyes on the road.
A faint smirk forming.
Beside her, King Halo shook her head, sinking slightly into the seat.
"Classics?"
She let out a short scoff.
"She's practically Miss Cool."
She raised a finger.
"Driving around in a Mustang Fastback…"
A pause.
"And a Porsche 917K."
A glance forward.
"And both tied to one name."
She smirked.
"Steve McQueen."
McQueen exhaled lightly through her nose.
"The Mustang's a replica."
A small pause.
"…Just a very accurate one."
King Halo raised an eyebrow.
"Oh?"
She leaned slightly.
"And what—did it come with factory patina too?"
McQueen shook her head.
"Nothing on the exterior's been touched in years."
A brief glance at the mirror.
"Except the wheels."
King Halo chuckled.
"So what's the plan then?"
A slight tilt of her head.
"You going to restore it?"
McQueen's answer came without hesitation.
"No."
A beat.
"It stays."
She kept her tone calm.
"It has character."
Her eyes stayed forward.
"Everyone at Tracen keeps their cars polished. Perfect."
A small pause.
"I'd rather keep mine… honest."
Maruzensky laughed.
"You?"
She leaned back slightly.
"A Mejiro choosing patina?"
A smirk.
"You're not Mejiro Ryan, you know."
McQueen nodded once.
"I know exactly who I am."
A slight tightening of her grip on the wheel.
"And I know what I like."
She continued, voice steady.
"Muscle cars are usually kept spotless."
A pause.
"But wear tells a story."
A faint glance upward through the windshield.
"A car that's been driven."
"Used."
"Lived in."
She exhaled.
"That matters more to me than perfection."
Maruzensky pressed her lips together.
Thinking.
Then—
She leaned back fully into her seat.
"…You actually make a good point."
McQueen scoffed lightly.
"Actually?"
Her eyes flicked briefly to the rearview mirror.
"Let's talk about you instead."
Maruzensky blinked.
McQueen continued.
"Undefeated."
"Never placed below first."
A small pause.
"And you drive a twin-turbo Countach like it's disposable."
She shook her head slightly.
"And didn't you say—during summer training—that it broke down…"
A glance.
"…and you hit the carburetor with a hammer?"
A small scoff.
"Talking about character…"
A faint smirk.
"Yours might be the highest-mileage Countach in existence."
A beat.
"…Or the most abused."
Maruzensky laughed.
"Highest mileage?"
She shrugged.
"Sure."
Then raised a finger.
"But abused?"
A shake of her head.
"Not even close."
She leaned forward slightly.
"I didn't have the tools at the time."
A small shrug.
"Fuel line blockage."
A smirk.
"A well-placed hit worked."
She sighed.
"…Though I did have to replace the Weber carburetors after."
McQueen gestured with one hand briefly.
"There you go."
A soft chuckle.
"No hard feelings."
Maruzensky smiled.
"None taken."
Beside her—
King Halo smirked.
Then nudged her lightly with an elbow.
"Hey… Maruzen."
Maruzensky glanced over.
"…Hm?"
King Halo's smirk widened slightly.
"Feeling nauseous?"
A pause.
Maruzensky blinked.
"…No?"
A slight tilt of her head.
"Why would I be?"
King Halo suddenly looked out the window.
"…Nothing."
That was enough.
Maruzensky's eyes narrowed.
"…You're implying something."
King Halo turned back.
Completely unfazed.
"Did you—or did you not—almost throw up riding shotgun in Rudolf's F40?"
Silence.
Maruzensky blinked.
Once.
"…No."
A beat.
She looked away.
"…Kinda."
King Halo let out a short laugh.
"Nothing to be embarrassed about."
She gave her shoulder a light pat.
"You're doing fine now, aren't you?"
Maruzensky hesitated.
Then nodded.
"Y-Yeah."
A small breath.
"I am."
King Halo nodded firmly.
"Then be proud of that."
A small pause.
Maruzensky chuckled softly.
"…Heh."
A faint smile.
"Yeah."
Outside—
The expressway stretched ahead.
Tokyo still half-asleep.
A car length behind—
Steady.
Measured.
Toyota GR Corolla cut cleanly through the early-morning air, its three-cylinder engine humming at a constant note as it followed the Century ahead.
No sudden inputs.
No unnecessary throttle.
Just smooth, consistent cruising.
Inside—
It was quiet.
Unusually quiet.
Symboli Rudolf wasn't speaking.
No jokes.
No remarks.
Silence Suzuka sat behind her, gaze fixed forward—watching the rhythm of highway lights streak past the windows.
One after another.
White lines.
Amber glow.
Repeating.
Beside her—
Special Week sat still.
Looking out the window.
Quiet.
Suzuka blinked.
Then turned slightly.
"Spe-chan…"
Special Week shifted her gaze toward her.
"Yes, Suzuka-san?"
Suzuka exhaled softly.
"…Is there more to it?"
A small pause.
"To you getting your car… and starting to drive like that?"
Special Week hesitated.
Looked away.
Just for a second.
Then lowered her head.
"…Yes."
Suzuka leaned slightly closer.
"I'm listening."
Special Week looked back at her.
Uncertain.
"You're… not mad?"
Suzuka smiled gently.
Shook her head.
"Why would I be?"
A small pause.
"I'm actually glad."
Her tone softened.
"You have your own way to get around now."
A faint smirk.
"And you can't keep asking us for rides forever."
Special Week nodded.
"…Right."
She took a breath.
Deep.
Then slowly let it out.
"A-Another reason…"
She leaned closer.
Lowering her voice slightly.
"…Is so I can drive alongside you."
Suzuka blinked.
Her eyes widened—just slightly.
"That's it?"
Special Week nodded.
Quiet.
Certain.
For a moment—
Suzuka didn't respond.
Her eyes shifted slightly, processing—
Then returned to Special Week.
"…Then who taught you to drift like that?"
Special Week blinked.
Then answered.
"The first two weeks…"
A small pause.
"…were with Wataru-san."
She nodded slightly.
"He taught me the basics."
"How to take a mountain pass."
"How to commit to a drift."
A breath.
"After that…"
She looked forward.
"…it was just me."
Another pause.
"…Practicing at Okutama."
Suzuka scratched the back of her head lightly.
From the front—
Rudolf spoke, turning slightly.
"How long has it been?"
Special Week looked up, thinking.
Her finger tapping lightly against her chin.
"…About half a month."
From the driver's seat—
Nice Nature blinked.
"…Half a month?"
She shook her head in disbelief.
"From what Sirius said…"
A glance at the mirror.
"You were holding drifts while staying in your lane."
A small pause.
"That's not beginner-level control."
Special Week waved her hands quickly.
"N-No, no—don't make it sound like that!"
She shook her head.
"I'm not that good!"
Rudolf chuckled softly.
"Not that good?"
A faint smile.
"You're already becoming one."
Suzuka nodded in agreement.
"Yeah."
She turned back to Special Week.
Her tone calm—but firm.
"Just keep doing what you're doing."
A pause.
"But remember—"
"If you're just out for a normal drive…"
Her gaze sharpened slightly.
"Follow the rules."
Special Week nodded immediately.
"Of course!"
Suzuka smiled.
"That's what I want to hear."
She leaned back slightly.
"Driving isn't just about getting from one place to another."
A glance out the window.
"It's something you experience."
Special Week nodded again.
"I'll remember that."
Suzuka gave a small nod.
Then turned her gaze forward once more.
Silence returned.
Calm.
Until—
Two headlights surged into view behind them.
Fast.
Closing in.
Then—
They passed.
In a flash—
A sharp, high-revving inline-six.
And—
A deep, turbocharged roar.
The cars flew past.
A Nissan Fairlady Z S30
And—
A Porsche 930 Turbo
Gone as quickly as they appeared.
Suzuka chuckled softly.
"…They're still at it."
Rudolf nodded.
"Tachyon and Cafe…"
A small smile.
"…some things never change."
A brief pause.
"She found her peace out here."
A glance forward.
"Not surprising… after everything last year."
Nice Nature nodded.
"…Yeah."
The GR Corolla maintained its pace.
Steady.
Controlled.
As the convoy continued down the Shuto—
Toward the airport.
And toward everything waiting beyond it.
Another twenty minutes—
Gone.
The skyline shifted.
Expressway lights gave way to wider lanes, clearer signage, and the unmistakable structure of an international hub.
They had arrived.
Haneda Airport Terminal 3.
The two cars rolled into the drop-off zone, easing to a smooth stop along the curb.
Engines idled.
Doors opened.
Cool air rushed in.
At the rear of the Toyota Century—
Mejiro McQueen reached up, gripping the trunk lid.
She pulled it down—
Thump.
A firm close.
She brushed her hands lightly against her pants.
Then turned.
Facing the six who were about to leave.
"Well then…"
A small smile.
"We'll see you in three and a half weeks."
Beside her, Nice Nature nodded.
"We'll hold things down here while you're gone."
From the group—
Symboli Rudolf chuckled softly.
"You'll be reporting to Air Groove while I'm away."
A slight tilt of her head.
"She's acting Student Council President."
Nice Nature scratched the back of her head awkwardly.
"Y-Yeah… got it…"
McQueen gave a slight bow.
"We'll be in touch."
A glance toward Suzuka.
"Message us when you land in France."
Silence Suzuka returned the bow gently.
"We will."
A final wave.
Then—
McQueen and Nice Nature turned back.
Returning to their cars.
The six stood for a brief moment.
Then turned toward the terminal.
Luggage in hand.
The sliding doors opened automatically.
A rush of cold, conditioned air met them as they stepped inside.
Bright lights.
Polished floors.
High ceilings stretching overhead.
The energy—
Completely different from the quiet dormitories they left behind.
Special Week's eyes widened instantly.
"Whoaa…!"
She turned in place slightly.
"This place is huge!"
Suzuka chuckled.
"Wait until you see other international airports."
Nearby, Forever Young checked her phone.
An e-ticket glowed on screen.
She looked up.
Scanning.
"Japan Airlines check-in…"
Her eyes tracked across the signage.
"…Rows F through K."
King Halo tilted her head slightly.
"Do we split up?"
Forever Young shook her head.
"No need."
A confident tone.
"We go together."
She smiled.
"They'll seat us close if we check in as a group."
Rudolf chuckled.
"Leave it to Yanko-kun."
Forever Young winked.
"Of course."
Rudolf shook her head lightly.
"This isn't a school event anyway."
A small smirk.
"Just call me Rudolf."
Forever Young tapped her head lightly, laughing.
"Right."
The group moved toward the check-in counters.
Line H.
The queue—
Short.
Manageable.
While waiting—
Maruzensky leaned slightly toward Rudolf.
"I'm excited."
A grin.
"Monaco's bound to have some incredible classics."
King Halo smirked, barely holding back a laugh.
"Monaco has class, sure."
A pause.
"But most people there drive modern cars."
Maruzensky's eyebrow twitched.
"Like I care about those."
She crossed her arms.
"I want the classics."
"Next group, please!"
A voice called from the counter.
Forever Young glanced back.
"We're up."
They stepped forward together.
At the counter—
A staff member greeted them with a polite bow.
"Welcome."
A warm smile.
"May I see your tickets, please?"
Forever Young returned the bow.
"Of course."
She handed over her phone.
The attendant scrolled through.
Six passengers.
Then placed the phone down carefully.
Fingers moved quickly across the keyboard.
"So, six travelers?"
Forever Young nodded.
"Yes."
The attendant continued.
"Destination—Charles de Gaulle Airport…"
A glance at the screen.
"With a connecting flight to Nice Côte d'Azur Airport?"
"Yes."
The attendant nodded.
"Any checked baggage?"
"Six bags."
She gestured toward the scale.
Then—
A phone rang.
The attendant picked it up.
Listened.
Nodded.
"…Understood."
She placed the receiver down.
Then looked up.
"You are expected guests."
Maruzensky blinked.
"…We are?"
The attendant smiled politely.
"Yes, Miss Maruzensky."
She looked back at the boarding passes printing out.
"You've all been upgraded."
A slight pause.
"From business class…"
"…to first class."
Silence.
Then—
Special Week's eyes widened.
"F-First class?!"
Forever Young chuckled.
"…Not surprised."
The process continued.
Luggage, one by one—
Forever Young — 30 kg
Tag secured.
Sent onto the conveyor.
Rudolf — 25 kg
King Halo — 20 kg
Maruzensky — 31 kg
Suzuka — 32 kg
Right on the limit.
Special Week — 30 kg
All within allowance.
Boarding passes were handed out individually.
One by one.
"This one is yours."
"Thank you."
With everything processed—
The attendant bowed.
"Enjoy your flight."
A warm smile.
"Have a pleasant journey."
The six bowed in return.
Rudolf smiled.
"Thank you very much."
The attendant gestured ahead.
"Security is this way."
The group turned.
Boarding passes in hand.
And began walking—
Toward security.
The line—
Was long.
Passengers stretched in a slow-moving queue, weaving between retractable belt barriers. Conversations murmured in different tones and languages, blending into a constant background hum.
The group took their place.
Waiting.
Time passed.
Gradually—
The line shortened.
Beside Suzuka, Special Week shifted slightly.
Her ears drooped just a little.
She leaned closer to King Halo.
"…They're not gonna do anything weird… right?"
King Halo let out a soft chuckle.
"Relax."
A small wave of her hand.
"It's just standard security."
She leaned back slightly.
"They're making sure everyone on board is safe."
Suzuka nodded calmly.
"Just follow along."
A reassuring glance.
"Do what we do."
Special Week nodded.
"…Okay."
A breath.
"I'll watch you both."
Step by step—
The line moved.
Until—
It was their turn.
One by one—
They passed through.
Symboli Rudolf
Maruzensky
King Halo
Silence Suzuka
All cleared without issue.
Then—
Special Week stepped forward.
The officer gestured.
"Next, please."
He pointed to a gray tray.
"Place all items here. Anything metallic as well."
Special Week nodded quickly.
"Y-Yes!"
She removed her sling bag carefully.
Placed it into the tray.
Her hands moved to her pockets.
Phone.
Coins.
All placed neatly.
The tray slid forward—
Into the X-ray scanner.
Special Week stepped up to the body scanner.
The officer spoke again.
"Raise your hands halfway."
She obeyed.
Slowly lifting both arms.
The machine began scanning.
She froze.
Completely still.
Too still.
From the side—
King Halo covered her mouth, laughing quietly.
"Hey—don't turn into a statue."
Special Week's eyes widened.
She clenched her teeth.
"N-Not now…!"
The scan finished.
A soft beep.
The officer nodded.
"You're clear."
A small gesture forward.
"Please collect your belongings."
Special Week bowed slightly.
"T-Thank you, sir!"
She hurried over—
Grabbing her bag.
Her phone.
Coins.
Then quickly rejoined the group.
King Halo chuckled again.
"So?"
A smirk.
"Was it that hard?"
Maruzensky crossed her arms, amused.
"I think the statue technique worked perfectly."
Special Week blushed deeply.
"Sh-Shut up…"
The group moved on.
Customs.
Departure inspection.
Smooth.
No issues.
And just like that—
They were through.
Now—
They stood before a massive departure board.
Flights listed in rows.
Destinations across the world.
Times.
Gates.
Statuses.
Forever Young glanced down at her ticket.
Then back up.
Her eyes scanned quickly.
Left to right.
Then—
She found it.
"There."
She pointed.
"Japan Airlines Flight 45."
A small nod.
"To Charles de Gaulle Airport."
Her finger shifted.
"To the right…"
"There."
"Gate 112."
Special Week looked at her.
"Where is that?"
Forever Young gestured ahead and slightly right.
"That way."
The group began walking.
Rolling luggage.
Steady pace.
As they moved—
Special Week glanced at her again.
"…You really look at home here."
Forever Young chuckled.
"Comes with experience."
A small shrug.
"I travel a lot."
Maruzensky laughed.
"I bet you've memorized the entire airport."
Rudolf smirked.
"I wouldn't be surprised."
Forever Young raised her hand—
Without even looking back—
And flipped them off casually.
"How about you two—"
A grin forming.
"Go figure it out yourselves."
The group burst into laughter.
The tension—
Gone.
As they reached—
Gate 112.
At Gate 112—
The group slowed to a stop.
Forever Young blinked, glancing up at the boarding display.
Then down at her phone.
"…Looks like we're early."
A small swipe on her screen.
"An hour and thirty minutes."
King Halo nodded.
"Good."
She gestured toward the seating area.
"Let's sit."
The others agreed—
Symboli Rudolf
Maruzensky
Silence Suzuka
Special Week
They moved toward a row of seats overlooking the runway.
Sat down together.
The large glass windows framed the aircraft outside—
Ground crew moving around it.
Fuel hoses connected.
Cargo doors open.
Suzuka leaned back into her seat.
Shoulders relaxing.
Eyes closing.
"I'll get some rest…"
A quiet exhale.
"Wake me before boarding."
King Halo gave a small nod.
"Got it."
Beside them—
Forever Young sank slightly into her seat.
Her posture relaxed.
Her gaze drifted—
Out the window.
Toward the plane.
For a moment—
Everything slowed.
Then—
A small voice broke through.
"…Miss?"
Forever Young blinked.
Turned.
A young child stood there—
Holding something carefully in both hands.
She smiled immediately, leaning forward slightly.
"Oh—hey there."
The child extended a photo.
And a silver marker.
Forever Young took them gently.
The photo—
Captured a moment.
Her.
Mid-run.
Victory.
The Saudi Cup.
She softened.
"…Ah."
A quiet breath.
"My Saudi Cup run."
She glanced at the child.
"That was my defending win."
The child nodded quickly.
"I saw it!"
A bit nervous.
"But really excited.
"You were amazing!"
Forever Young smiled warmly.
"Thank you."
A small nod.
"That race meant a lot to me."
She uncapped the marker.
Turned the photo slightly.
And signed it carefully.
Cap back on.
She handed both back.
"Here you go."
The child bowed quickly.
"T-Thank you so much!"
A moment later—
The child's mother stepped forward, holding her phone.
"Would it be alright…"
A polite smile.
"…if we took a photo?"
Forever Young nodded without hesitation.
"Of course."
The child stepped beside her.
Close.
A little shy.
Forever Young placed a hand gently on the child's shoulder.
Leaning in slightly.
A bright smile.
Peace sign raised.
Click.
The photo was taken.
The child stepped back.
Turned once more.
And bowed again.
"Thank you!"
The mother bowed as well.
"Thank you so much."
Forever Young gave a small bow from her seat.
"Anytime."
They walked away.
Blending back into the crowd of travelers.
Forever Young leaned back again.
Settling into her seat.
Her gaze shifted—
Toward Rudolf.
"…Nice to see that."
A small smile.
"Outside the track."
Rudolf nodded.
Calm.
Understanding.
"Of course."
A brief pause.
"There's nothing quite like it."
Time passed quickly.
Conversations faded.
Passengers gathered.
Announcements echoed softly across the terminal.
Then—
Boarding.
The group stood near the gate desk.
Boarding passes in hand.
Luggage neatly arranged beside them.
Special Week shifted slightly, letting out a small sigh.
"…When are we boarding?"
Forever Young raised a hand lazily.
"Relax, Spe-chan."
A small smirk.
"Give it a minute."
She glanced down at her ticket.
Brows narrowing slightly.
"…First class."
A pause.
"Boarding group… U?"
Right on cue—
The PA system crackled.
"Ladies and gentlemen, Japan Airlines Flight 45 bound for Charles de Gaulle Airport is now boarding."
A brief pause.
"We invite our First Class passengers—boarding group U—to proceed."
Forever Young blinked.
Looked at her ticket again.
Then back at the group.
"…You guys got U too?"
Symboli Rudolf checked hers.
"Yep."
Maruzensky nodded.
"Same here."
Suzuka and Special Week followed—
Nodding.
Forever Young smirked.
"Well then."
She stepped forward.
"That's us."
The group approached the gate.
A staff member stood ready with a scanner.
They bowed.
She returned it.
"Boarding passes, please."
Forever Young handed hers over.
BEEP.
"Safe travels, Miss Forever Young."
She nodded.
"Thank you."
One by one—
They followed.
Scan.
Beep.
Step forward.
Into the jet bridge.
The enclosed walkway stretched ahead—
Then gradually—
The walls shifted.
From solid—
To glass.
And there—
For the first time—
They saw it.
The aircraft.
Airbus A350-1000
Long.
Sleek.
Massive.
Special Week's eyes lit up instantly.
"Whoa…!"
She leaned slightly closer to the glass.
"It's huge!"
Suzuka chuckled softly.
"It is."
King Halo sighed.
"…If only Sirius-san were here."
Maruzensky laughed.
"What about Maya-chan?"
King Halo scoffed.
"Please."
A small shake of her head.
"She'd just talk about fighter jets the whole time."
Maruzensky rubbed the back of her head, laughing.
"…Right."
They continued forward.
Reaching the aircraft door—
Front left entry.
Flight attendants greeted them with a bow.
"Welcome aboard."
One attendant stepped forward.
"May I see your boarding pass?"
Forever Young handed hers.
The attendant glanced at it—
Then smiled.
"Seat 1A."
A gentle gesture.
"This way, please."
"Thank you."
One by one—
They entered.
Rudolf — 1D
Maruzensky — 1K
King Halo — 2A
Special Week — 2G
Suzuka — 2K
As Suzuka settled into her seat—
She picked up the aircraft information card.
Glanced over it.
"…A350-1000…"
Her eyes shifted to the cabin layout.
Then—
A small smirk formed.
"…We took the entire First Class row."
A light knock.
She looked up.
Forever Young stood by the partition.
Grinning.
"Looks like we did."
Suzuka nodded.
"We did."
Forever Young smirked.
"I'll come by once we're cruising."
Suzuka gave a small nod.
"Alright."
Forever Young winked—
Then returned to her seat.
Passengers continued boarding.
Minutes passed.
Twenty-five.
Cabin doors closed.
Then—
Ding.
The PA system came alive.
"Flight attendants, arm doors for departure. Crosscheck."
The aircraft was ready.
Suzuka turned to her screen.
Tapped the display.
The flight map appeared.
A long route—
Stretching across the globe.
Northbound.
Over the Pacific.
Across North America.
Then over the Arctic.
Into Europe.
A detour—
Avoiding restricted airspace.
Longer—
But steady.
Then—
A subtle flicker.
The cabin lights adjusted.
A low rumble beneath them.
Movement.
Pushback.
The aircraft began to roll.
Taxiing.
Turning.
Lining up.
Then—
Pause.
Engines spooled.
The deep, rising roar of Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 filled the airframe.
Throttle advanced.
Acceleration.
Faster.
The runway lights blurred.
The wings flexed upward under load.
The nose lifted.
And—
They were airborne.
Tokyo fell away beneath them.
Lights shrinking.
Becoming distant.
Suzuka watched quietly through the window.
For now—
Goodbye, Japan.
Ahead—
France awaited.
Hours passed.
Somewhere above the clouds—
Time stopped feeling normal.
The sun slowly rose beyond the horizon, spilling pale gold light across a sea of white cloud layers. The aircraft cruised steadily at altitude, cutting through the sky with calm precision.
Inside the cabin—
It was quiet.
Comfortably so.
Just the distant, constant hum of air rushing past the fuselage.
A sound that quickly became background silence.
Breakfast service had begun earlier.
Now—
It was winding down.
Silence Suzuka took a quiet bite of her meal.
Simple.
Calm.
Then—
Movement beside her.
Special Week approached, rubbing one eye slightly.
A yawn escaped her.
"Morning, Suzuka-san…"
Her voice still carried that half-asleep tone.
Suzuka glanced over.
A small smile forming.
"Good morning, Spe-chan."
She tilted her head slightly.
"How are you holding up?"
Special Week lifted her shoulders slightly.
Then let them drop.
"…I'm okay."
A pause.
"But my ears…"
She tapped them lightly.
"They just won't pop."
Suzuka reached into the seat pocket beside her.
Pulled out a small pack of candy.
She handed it over.
"Chew these."
A calm nod.
"It helps with the pressure."
Special Week blinked.
Then accepted it.
"Thanks."
At that moment—
Another voice joined in.
Forever Young stepped over from the front cabin section.
"Yeah, it's normal."
She leaned slightly against the seat.
"Pressure changes at altitude do that."
A small shrug.
"Chewy candy or gum helps a lot."
She smiled at Special Week.
"Morning, Spe-chan."
Special Week nodded back.
"Morning, Yanko-san."
Forever Young lightly patted her shoulder.
"So—how's your first flight so far?"
Special Week thought for a moment.
Then nodded.
"…Pretty good."
Forever Young grinned.
"Nice."
A thumbs-up.
"That's what I like to hear."
She turned away.
Walking back toward her seat.
Special Week stayed a moment longer.
Then looked at Suzuka.
"I'll head back if you need me."
Suzuka nodded, already finishing her breakfast.
"Go ahead."
Special Week returned to her seat.
Suzuka exhaled softly.
Then reached into the seat pocket.
A magazine.
She pulled it out.
Flipped through.
A familiar page caught her attention.
Monaco Grand Prix.
A featured image.
Her.
Standing beside a historic machine.
A moment captured mid-event.
The MP4/6.
A legend in motorsport history.
Suzuka stared at it quietly.
A faint smile forming.
She closed the magazine gently.
Slid it back into the pocket.
A soft whisper.
"…There's nothing I can do about Goodwood this year."
A pause.
"But…"
A faint exhale.
"I guess it's fine."
A small smile returned.
"I'm actually glad I'm not going this year."
Her gaze shifted toward the window.
Clouds stretching endlessly outside.
"Suzuka Circuit… Monaco Historic… the Grand Prix guest appearance…"
A quiet chuckle.
"…This amount of travel is exhausting."
She leaned back slightly.
"How does Yanko-kun manage this?"
Silence.
The aircraft continued forward.
Smooth.
Steady.
Unchanging.
And in the distance—
Time kept moving.
Eleven hours passed in the sky.
Until finally—
Descent began.
The clouds broke.
Land appeared below.
France.
Charles de Gaulle Airport came into view.
The journey wasn't over yet.
But they had arrived.
Before they could fully settle into France, reality reminded them of one more step.
Even after a long-haul flight—
There was still immigration.
Charles de Gaulle Airport was already busy.
Bright lights.
Clear signage.
The controlled flow of international arrivals shifting into connecting domestic traffic.
The group formed a line.
Luggage at their sides.
Jet lag slowly creeping in.
King Halo leaned slightly toward Special Week, lowering her voice just enough.
"Spe-chan…"
Her eyes narrowed a little.
"Please, under no circumstances, mention that El Condor Pasa taught you anything."
Special Week tilted her head.
"…Why?"
King Halo immediately facepalmed.
"Because that will send your immigration interview into a completely different direction."
Behind them—
Forever Young chuckled softly.
"Basic French will do fine, Spe-chan."
She raised a finger as if giving a lecture.
"Bonjour means hello."
"Au revoir means goodbye."
"And Monsieur and Madame are formal titles."
She smiled.
"It's not complicated."
A voice called ahead.
"Next, please!"
Forever Young straightened slightly.
"That's me."
She stepped forward.
One by one—
The group passed through individual immigration checks.
Simple.
Smooth.
Routine.
Eventually—
It was Special Week's turn.
She walked up to the booth.
Hands slightly tighter around her documents.
The officer looked up.
"Good morning, madame. Passport and ticket, please."
Special Week quickly complied.
Handing them over carefully.
The officer opened the passport.
Checked the identification page.
Glanced up.
Then back again.
A brief comparison.
A match.
He nodded and set it down.
"Purpose of visit?"
Special Week blinked.
Then answered clearly.
"To visit Monaco, attend the Monaco Historic Grand Prix and the Monaco Grand Prix two weeks later."
The officer raised an eyebrow.
"Duration of stay?"
"Three weeks and three days, sir."
"Traveling alone?"
"No, sir. I'm with a group of five. They already passed."
Behind her, the others watched from a distance.
King Halo nodded slightly.
"So far so good."
Maruzensky smirked.
"I bet she's sweating buckets right now."
Back at the booth—
The officer continued.
"Who is financing your trip?"
Special Week hesitated briefly.
Then answered.
"I brought cash. Eight thousand euros exchanged in Japan."
"And occupation?"
She straightened slightly.
"I'm a racehorse—Umamusume racer under the Umamusume Racing Association."
The officer's expression softened.
"Ah… yes. We are familiar."
A small nod.
"We've been informed of your visit."
He leaned back slightly.
"First time in France?"
"Yes, sir."
He closed the passport.
Stamped it firmly.
THUNK.
Then returned it.
"Welcome to France, Madame Special Week."
A polite smile.
"Enjoy your stay. And enjoy the races."
Special Week bowed quickly.
"Th-thank you very much!"
She stepped away.
Exhaling only once she rejoined the group.
King Halo nodded.
"You handled that well."
Special Week blinked.
"…I did?"
Forever Young gave a thumbs-up.
"Clean answers. No hesitation. That's exactly what they want."
Symboli Rudolf smirked lightly.
"Just don't sprint out of interviews next time."
King Halo groaned.
"Really, Rudolf?"
Rudolf shrugged.
"Couldn't resist."
Maruzensky laughed.
"If Sirius was here, you'd be getting hit already."
Rudolf raised an eyebrow.
"Sirius really hates my jokes that much?"
Suzuka, slightly amused, glanced sideways.
"Not as much as Air Groove would."
A pause.
"She's probably enjoying your absence for three weeks."
The group laughed softly.
The tension finally gone.
And with that—
They moved forward again.
Deeper into the airport
A few minutes later—
The group arrived at their gate.
The terminal opened up into a glass-walled view of the apron.
And there it was.
Their aircraft.
Smaller than expected.
Compact.
Almost deceptively so after the long-haul A350 they had just left behind.
Airbus A318 sat at the gate, its Air France livery clean under the morning light.
Forever Young blinked.
Her ears twitched once.
"…That plane is way smaller than I thought."
Symboli Rudolf glanced at it calmly.
"Any idea what it is?"
Forever Young exhaled.
"No clue."
Special Week raised a finger slightly.
"Maybe Sirius-san would know?"
King Halo nodded immediately.
"Good idea."
She pulled out her phone.
Raised it toward the aircraft.
Tap.
A photo.
Then she typed quickly:
We're at the gate. What is this plane?
A moment later.
Reply came in.
You lucky bastards. That's the Baby Bus.
King Halo tilted her head.
"…Baby Bus?"
She typed back.
Baby Bus?
Instant response.
Airbus A318. Shortest member of the A320 family. Rare now. Only a few operators still use it—Air France is basically one of the last.
King Halo smirked slightly and pocketed her phone.
"She says it's an Airbus A318."
A pause.
"Nicknamed Baby Bus."
Forever Young's eyes widened slightly.
"So it's rare?"
King Halo nodded.
"Apparently, yes."
Maruzensky leaned forward slightly, looking at the aircraft with renewed interest.
"Well… that explains why it feels a bit… compact."
Suzuka observed quietly, hands in her pockets.
"It's still going to take us where we need to go."
Rudolf gave a small nod.
"That's all that matters."
Special Week looked up at the plane with quiet excitement.
"So even smaller planes like this can still fly long distances?"
Forever Young chuckled.
"Not long-haul like the A350 you saw earlier, Spe-chan. But Europe routes? Perfectly normal."
She tilted her head.
"Think of it as a city runner compared to a marathon runner."
King Halo crossed her arms.
"Then the A350 is the marathon monster."
Rudolf smirked faintly.
"And we just swapped categories mid-journey."
A short silence followed.
Not uncomfortable.
Just observant.
Then Forever Young stretched her arms slightly.
"Well, lucky or not…"
She grinned.
"We're still going to Monaco."
Special Week nodded firmly.
"Yes!"
Time passed.
Not in a rush.
Not slowly either.
Just the steady rhythm of an airport moving toward departure.
And eventually—
It began again.
Boarding.
The group stood once more near the gate desk.
This time, the energy was different.
Less anticipation of arrival.
More acceptance of transition.
Special Week adjusted her grip on her boarding pass.
Her eyes flicked over the text.
"…Boarding Group A this time."
Forever Young checked hers too.
"Same here."
A short nod.
"Group A."
A calm pause.
Then the terminal speakers clicked on.
"Bonjour ladies and gentlemen."
The voice was smooth, practiced.
"Air France Flight 7310 to Nice Côte d'Azur Airport is now boarding."
A brief pause.
"We invite passengers in Boarding Group A to proceed to the gate. Merci."
Forever Young tilted her head slightly.
"…Group A, huh?"
She looked at the others.
"Everyone got it?"
Symboli Rudolf checked her pass.
"Confirmed."
Maruzensky nodded.
"Same."
King Halo gave a small shrug.
"Obviously."
Silence Suzuka simply nodded once.
"Yes."
Forever Young smirked.
"Alright then."
She stepped forward.
"That's our cue."
The group moved as one.
The gate staff stood ready.
Scanner in hand.
Professional posture.
"Boarding passes, please."
Forever Young handed hers first.
Beep.
A clean green light.
"Merci. Safe travels."
One by one, they followed.
Beep.
Step.
Beep.
Step.
A steady rhythm into motion.
Then—
The jet bridge.
Enclosed.
Narrow.
Quiet.
A controlled tunnel separating land from air.
The walk was shorter than the long-haul flight.
More compact.
More direct.
No hesitation.
Just forward motion.
At the end—
The aircraft door.
Front left entry.
A flight attendant greeted them with a polite smile.
"Welcome aboard."
A slight bow.
"May I see your boarding pass?"
Forever Young handed hers.
The attendant scanned it.
A soft beep.
Then a nod.
"Seat 3A."
She gestured.
"This way please."
One by one, the seating order continued:
Rudolf — 3B
Maruzensky — 3C
King Halo — 3D
Special Week — 3E
Suzuka — 3F
As Special Week stepped into the cabin—
She paused slightly.
The interior was noticeably different.
Compact aisle.
Shorter cabin length.
Tighter overhead space.
A clear regional layout.
"This is… not First Class."
She said it softly.
More observation than complaint.
Forever Young was already settling in overhead luggage.
"Nope."
A casual tone.
"Economy."
King Halo crossed her arms.
"Even so… Sirius said this aircraft is rare."
A pause.
"So it still counts as something special."
Maruzensky leaned back into her seat.
"Economy or not, I'll take it."
The group settled in.
Seatbelts clicked.
Bags stowed.
Overhead bins closed.
The cabin slowly filled with the soft sounds of boarding passengers.
Footsteps.
Zippers.
Quiet conversations.
Silence Suzuka sat by the window.
Still.
Focused.
Watching the apron outside.
King Halo glanced sideways.
"Spe-chan."
A brief pause.
"You alright?"
Special Week nodded quickly.
"Yes!"
Then softer—
"…I'm just really excited."
Maruzensky chuckled lightly.
"You're saying that like you're not about to explode."
Special Week flinched.
"I-I'm not!"
Rudolf gave a calm, approving smile.
"Good. Save that energy."
A pause.
"For when it actually matters."
Suzuka leaned slightly toward the aisle.
Calm voice.
"Monaco isn't forgiving."
A faint smirk.
"But that's what makes it interesting."
A soft chime echoed.
"Cabin crew… arm doors and cross-check."
The door sealed.
A firm mechanical lock.
The cabin subtly shifted into isolation from the terminal.
Engines began to spool.
A low, controlled rise in sound.
Inside—
Awareness sharpened.
Not tension.
Just focus.
Suzuka finally spoke quietly.
"…We're really here."
Forever Young smiled slightly.
"Yeah."
King Halo leaned back.
"No turning back now."
Maruzensky added softly.
"Not that anyone wants to."
Special Week straightened in her seat.
Hands on lap.
Eyes forward.
"…Let's do our best."
Rudolf nodded once.
"As always."
The aircraft moved.
Slow pushback.
Precise alignment.
Taxi began.
Airbus A318 rolled forward into its path.
Compact.
Efficient.
Quietly confident.
Outside—
France waited behind them.
Monaco waited ahead.
Forever Young exhaled lightly, watching the taxi lights glide past the window.
"Alright…"
A small grin.
"Next stop—Nice."
And Monaco was getting closer.
The second aircraft ride ended almost as quickly as it began.
From Paris to the Riviera sky, the transition was smooth—almost seamless.
And before anyone fully registered it…
They had already landed.
Nice Côte d'Azur Airport welcomed them with warm coastal air the moment the doors opened.
The difference in atmosphere was immediate.
Less cold. Less heavy.
Sharper sunlight.
A faint scent of the sea carried in the wind.
But they didn't stay long.
Waiting just beyond the terminal—
A sleek helicopter sat ready.
Sikorsky S-76.
Its rotors already spinning slowly, cutting through the air with a controlled, rhythmic hum.
A short-range transfer.
Final leg.
The group boarded quickly.
Seatbelts clicked.
Headsets adjusted.
Inside—
The cabin was quieter than expected.
A steady vibration.
A calm kind of motion.
Silence Suzuka sat by the window.
Silent.
Still.
But her mind wasn't.
In her thoughts—
The streets of Monaco unfolded like a living circuit.
Corners. Elevation changes. Tight barriers.
A mental replay already running laps before arrival.
Behind her—
Maruzensky leaned slightly toward King Halo.
A faint chuckle.
"She really wants this win, huh."
King Halo nodded slowly.
"Of course she does."
A pause.
"She's not the type to lose focus once it's set."
Symboli Rudolf spoke next, calm as always.
"Even with a worst finish of fifteenth in her record…"
Her gaze shifted toward Suzuka.
"She's still one of Japan's most consistent front-runners."
A small nod.
"Dozens of wins don't disappear from history."
Maruzensky smiled faintly.
"A career you don't forget easily."
Her eyes followed Suzuka for a moment.
Then softened slightly.
"A racer at heart… even when she's not on track."
Silence followed again.
The helicopter continued forward.
The coastline opened beneath them.
Blue deepened into turquoise.
Cities curved along the shore like they were painted into the landscape.
Then—
Suzuka moved.
Just slightly.
Her eyes opened.
She leaned toward the window.
And there it was.
The Principality.
Small.
Dense.
Legendary.
Monaco.
The track. The harbor. The tight street network.
A place built like it was never meant to be temporary.
Suzuka's expression softened.
A rare moment of quiet satisfaction.
"…There it is."
Her voice calm.
Clear.
She straightened slightly.
And spoke again.
"Welcome to Monaco, everyone."
Outside—
The helicopter banked gently toward landing.
And beneath them—
A new chapter of racing had already begun.