There Will Only Be One Victor

The bell signaling the end of class rang like a distant horn. Kitasan Black practically sprinted out of the classroom on its last note, nearly crashing into the japanese language teacher who was about to leave.

"Y-Yes, sorry, sir!" She hurriedly stopped herself and bowed deeply at a perfect ninety degrees.

The bespectacled japanese language teacher, whose expression was always stern, adjusted his glasses. Looking at the Academy's star Horse Girl before him, he showed no leniency because of her fame.

"You came at the right time, Student Kitasan. I have something to say to you."

The teacher's tone was steady, yet carried unquestionable weight:

"Whether it is training or anything else, neither is an excuse for being late to class.

"Time is discipline, and it is also a rule. Aren't you the same way in races? I hope you remember that in your studies and daily life as well.

"So no matter how important something is, you need to plan ahead instead of rushing to apologize afterward."

"Yes! I'm very sorry, sir! I understand! There definitely won't be a next time!" Kitasan Black lowered her head even further and promised loudly.

The teacher stared at her for two seconds, seemingly confirming her sincerity, before finally giving a slight nod and leaving with his teaching materials in his arms.

Kitasan Black straightened up and let out a long breath. But when she looked up, she saw several pairs of eyes staring at her in unison from the bend in the hallway not far away.

Satono Diamond, Duramente, Futanari Shingang, and, a little farther away, Koushou Hayate and Teio Sho, who seemed to merely be passing by but had stopped as well. Her friends and rivals all wore curious, probing expressions.

"Little Kita, you... why were you late for so long?"