After explaining the race instructions and analysis to Kitasan Black in exhaustive detail, and confirming that she was fully prepared in every respect, Anjing Zhen gave her a few final reminders before leaving the Preparation Room and making his way to the stands through the underground passage.
He stood in his usual spot at the very front, almost directly facing the Finish Line, then took out his phone.
Just as he was about to make a call, a voice suddenly came from behind him.
"Kukuku, Anjing-kun really is punctual."
Startled, Anjing Zhen turned with a wry smile.
"...Doctor Sovetsky, could you please stop scaring people like that?"
Standing behind him at some unknown point was Agnes Tachyon. The Horse Girl was not wearing her white lab coat today, but a white long-sleeved trench coat instead.
The sleeves were so long that they covered her hands with plenty to spare, making one feel an urge to grab them and tie them into a knot at first glance.
"You can't blame me for that."
Agnes Tachyon casually waved a hand, flicking her sleeve toward the person beside her.
"Anjing-kun should blame this one.
"When I'm around her, I somehow become completely silent without realizing it. Quite a fascinating phenomenon, Kukuku..."
After letting out her trademark strange laugh, she held out her hand to Anjing Zhen.
"Did you bring it?"
...Why did this look like some kind of shady transaction?
Unable to stop himself from complaining inwardly, Anjing Zhen patted the shoulder bag he carried with him, took out a thick package, and handed it over.
"Here. I brought it."
A flash of delight crossed her eyes. Holding the package, Agnes Tachyon examined it back and forth, her voice wavering slightly.
"So this contains all of Student Kitasan's training logs since her debut?"