Does a random pivot keep p99() fast?

The metrics service computes p99 latency with quickselect. After a dashboard timed out, the assistant changed how p99() picks its pivot.

Your task

The assistant stands by the claim in claim.md. Reach a verdict and prove it with a run.

• verdict() returns the string "true" or "false"
• latencies() returns the 2,000 latencies your run uses, in milliseconds
• check() counts the comparisons the old and the new p99() make on your list
• a verdict on its own does not count; the run has to show it
• leave everything below the dashed line alone; it is the code under test and the graded driver

The suite counts the comparisons at submit and checks the run settles the claim.