"Before we start training, let's introduce the new member," I said. "Fuji Kiseki, from Ritto dorm, same as Air Groove, and dorm leader to boot. Like Air Groove, she'll focus on mile to mid-distance races, though we might try long-distance later. That's for down the road."

Fuji grinned. "Nice to meet you, Air Groove."

"Likewise," Air Groove said, nodding.

"Straight to business," I said. "Air Groove, you're in Shuka Sho adjustment mode. Last week's heavy training is done, but we're keeping the intensity solid to maintain your edge. Make sure you're in peak condition for race day."

"Understood," Air Groove said.

"Fuji Kiseki," I continued, "today's about seeing your run. First a mile, then mid-distance. Run like it's a race."

"Got it, Trainer-san," Fuji said. "Any specific requests?"

"Nope," I said. "Just run your usual. I'll spot your strengths, weaknesses, and challenges from there."

"Then I'll keep it natural," Fuji said.

"Alright," I said. "Anything from you two?"

"Nothing," Air Groove said.

"All good," Fuji said.

"Let's hit the course," I said.

At the track, I crossed my arms, watching.

Air Groove glared. "You caused this mess. Deal with it."

"I didn't cause anything!" I protested. "They barged in uninvited. What am I supposed to do?"

Fuji tilted her head. "What's going on?"

Mr. C.B. stomped over. "Hachiman, why?"

"Why what?" I said, bracing myself.

"Why didn't you pick me?" she whined.

Called it, I thought.

I sighed. "Want the simple reason?"

"Yeah," she said.

"I chose Fuji because she's who I wanted to train next after Air Groove."

"What about me?" C.B. pressed.

"Look," I said, "I thought it through. I'd be lying if I said I didn't want to train you, but you're always around—like you're already freeloading. Maybe you'll just show up as my third trainee someday."

"That's harsh!" C.B. cried. "You're just playing with me, you cheater!"

"If you're gonna say that, sign a contract," I said. "But my limit's two right now, so tough luck."

Air Groove frowned. "I don't get why you're so desperate to be his trainee."

"Then trade places!" C.B. said, eyes gleaming.

"…No way," Air Groove said firmly.

I groaned. "So, what's it gonna be? You joining training or not?"

"Joining!" C.B. chirped.

Fuji chuckled. "Like the president said, C.B.'s a different person around you, Trainer-san."

"Why is this my life?" I muttered.

"So, what's today's plan?" C.B. asked.

"Train with Air Groove," I said. "It's Shuka Sho adjustment, so nothing too intense. If you're up for it."

"Got it!" C.B. said.

"Fuji, like I said, I'm watching your run," I said. "I'll be thorough."

"Leave it to me, Trainer-san," Fuji said.

So, the three of us—plus one freeloader—kicked off training. Air Groove followed the menu I'd prepped, moving through it smoothly. Fuji's evaluation? Her mile run was as strong as last year's—better than Air Groove's, honestly. Mid-distance was solid, but 2200 meters seemed her current limit. She could handle a G1 like the Takarazuka Kinen, but for now, 2400-meter stamina was a stretch. More training would fix that.

Fuji panted. "Huff… huff…"

"Tired?" I asked.

"A bit," she said. "But this is just a test run, right?"

"Yeah," I said. "I pushed you with different mid-distances to see your range. Might've overdone it, but it gave me a clear picture."

"That's good," she said.

"Alright, we're wrapping up," I said.

Air Groove approached. "I finished the menu. Felt like a good workout."

"Your menus are the best, Hachiman!" C.B. sang.

"Thanks," I said. "We're done here, so you three head to cooldown."

Fuji's eyes flickered. Did he time my run to finish with Air Groove's? Trainers watch everyone, but he was focused on me the whole time… and we still synced up?

"What's up?" I asked, noticing her stare.

"Nothing," Fuji said. "Just thinking you're pretty amazing, Trainer-san."

"There are way better trainers out there," I said. "Go on, don't get left behind."

"Right, see ya!" Fuji said, jogging off.

Rough around the edges, but Fuji's got potential. I'm looking forward to this.

Afterword

Training's in full swing, and chaos follows! Air Groove's fine-tuning for the Shuka Sho like the champ she is, while Fuji's first run shows off her mile-speed edge—secondary but sparkling! Mr. C.B.'s freeloader antics steal the show, whining and crashing Hachiman's session. With the Triple Tiara looming and Bubblegum Fellow's comeback in the air, the turf's buzzing with promise and pandemonium. Let's see how this team shapes up!

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