Wings and Shackles

The female representative spoke in the same measured tone as the business representative, though it carried a faint, almost imperceptible air of condescension. "I do not deny the facts Daiwa has raised. But first, I must clarify that those precedents were individual cases considered comprehensively according to the circumstances at the time, with extremely thorough preparations and risk assessments made in every instance.

"As for the differences between Japan and Europe in various respects, we have of course considered them carefully. Yet those very differences are one reason we believe Kitasan Black's Overseas Expedition carries even greater risks.

"Her present situation is especially unique. Her accomplishments are unprecedented, and the expectations she bears are greater than ever before. It could be said that she has become an important banner for Japanese Horse Girls and even the Shining Series worldwide. That banner cannot be risked lightly; failure is not an option. Therefore, we must adopt a strategy more cautious—indeed, more conservative—than at any previous time.

"This is not a restriction. It is protection."

"What kind of protection is that?!" Daiwa Scarlet's eyes widened. Her voice rose despite herself as she leaned farther forward.

At that moment, a hand reached over from beside her and rested atop hers.

She froze for a moment, then immediately calmed down. She glanced at the person beside her and silently sat back.

Withdrawing her hand, Agnes Tachyon adjusted the glasses she had somehow acquired. A sharp gleam flashed across the lenses as an unusual chill and sarcasm entered her voice. "So, what the business representative just said—and what you, the URA Association representative, are saying—is that the long-term data tracking our team has conducted for the past year for this Overseas Expedition, our targeted enhancement plans, our detailed research reports on different overseas tracks, and our