WebNovels

Chapter 2 - Come and go

Peach Waves had settled happily into life at the restaurant, her days filled with warmth, laughter, and the comforting aroma of simmering broth.

"Hurry up, Grandpa! You promised to take me to watch the race today!"

"Haha, I know, I know" Longjing chuckled, adjusting his crutch. "Don't worry, Peach Waves. We've got plenty of time before it starts."

Watching her skip ahead with excitement, Longjing smiled softly.

"Time really flies…"

Together, the old man and the horse girl made their way to the grand racecourse. The stadium buzzed with energy as horse girls warmed up on the field, each preparing for the competition ahead.

Peach Waves' sharp eyes immediately locked onto the regal figure of Emperor Rudolf, dressed in a dark green military-style uniform. Her crimson shawl fluttered dramatically in the wind, exuding power and grace.

Gripping the railing, Peach Waves sparkled with admiration.

"I used to only see horse girls on screen… but being here in person—it's magical."

Longjing, noticing her leaning too far, gently tugged her collar.

"Easy there, Peach Waves. You'll tumble over if you're not careful."

"I'm just excited, Grandpa!"

"You really love horse girls, don't you?"

"Mm-hmm… If I could, I'd love to run on that field too."

Kyoto Track – 2400 meters, medium distance. Weather: Clear.

The announcer's voice echoed as the gates prepared to open. Peach Waves fell silent, her eyes fixed on the arena.

Bang!

The gates burst open. Sixteen horse girls surged forward, their hooves pounding the turf. Even though Peach Waves only recognized Emperor Rudolf, it didn't matter—the thrill of the race was enough.

This was Rudolf's era. Her dominance was unquestioned.

As the final stretch approached, Rudolf lowered her stance, her toes digging into the earth. With explosive force, she launched forward, overtaking three competitors and crossing the finish line with ease.

She slid to a graceful stop, pointed skyward, and the crowd erupted in cheers.

Peach Waves gasped as Rudolf's gaze swept across the audience—and landed on her.

Their eyes met: Rudolf's regal purple with Peach Waves' shimmering ice-blue. Rudolf offered a subtle smile before turning away.

"Come on, Peach Waves" Longjing said, patting her head. "Let's go. Her victory ceremony will start soon."

"Okay, Grandpa."

As they walked away, Longjing glanced at her thoughtfully.

"You know… I think you could race too. What do you say? Want to become a horse girl?"

Peach Waves froze, then turned to him with trembling hope.

"Really? Grandpa, you think I can?"

"Of course! But you'll need training. We'll test your aptitude soon—see if Tracen Academy will take you."

"Tracen!?" Her eyes lit up. "Yes, yes!"

Back at the restaurant, Peach Waves changed into her work clothes and returned to the kitchen. Her movements were swift and graceful, her cooking full of creativity and flavor.

Tian Si watched in awe.

"Senior, Peach Waves is a culinary genius. Her dishes are unique—and delicious."

Longjing stroked his beard proudly.

"Of course! She inherited my skills. Unlike you, who's still struggling after all these years."

Tian Si chuckled sheepishly.

Word spread quickly. Customers came not just for the food, but to see the adorable little horse girl chef. So the restaurant's popularity soared, and it was packed daily.

One afternoon, several clerks approached Peach Waves while she was cleaning pots.

"Peach Waves-chan, we want to hang your poster at the entrance. Pretty please?"

Xiao Ning clasped her hands, pleading.

Peach Waves blinked in confusion.

"Sister Xiao Ning, why not ask Grandpa first?"

"The manager said it's up to you. If we did it secretly, Grandpa would fire us!"

Peach Waves scratched her head, then nodded.

"Okay, I don't mind. But… why?"

"Because you're adorable! You're one of the cutest horse girl around. A poster will boost business—and our commissions!"

"We even decided to give you one-tenth of our salaries as pocket money," Xiao Ning added, patting her head.

"Eh!? Really? Did Grandpa agree?"

"He's already on board," Tian Si said proudly. "Don't worry!"

"Yay! I get spending money!"

Peach Waves jumped with joy. Grandpa Longjing had never given her an allowance before, but now she earned a monthly wage—and saved most of it for her dream of racing.

"Here's your card," Xiao Ning whispered. "Don't tell Grandpa, or he'll confiscate it!"

Peach Waves tilted her head.

"A bank card?"

"Yup. You're earning too much for cash!"

She accepted it carefully, then resumed cleaning—until Tian Si stopped her.

"Leave the dishes to me. Go upstairs and relax."

"Okay, Uncle Tian Si!"

Upstairs, Peach Waves clutched her card, ready to celebrate. But then—

"Balance detected. Activation panel opening. Deducting 2 million. Confirm?"

"Huh? A system?! That's amazing!"

"Due to inactivity, default confirmation applied."

A voice echoed in her mind. Moments later, her phone buzzed.

Your account ending in 4399 has been charged 2 million. Remaining balance: 0.

Peach Waves froze, stunned.

"My money came so fast… and left even faster?!"

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