Hearing: Kidnapping

Immediately afterward, the capable-looking woman who served as the Association chairperson's secretary spoke again, taking over the discussion. Her tone was heavier than before, carrying an invisible pressure.

"Second, there is the issue of the industry ecosystem's stability."

Her tone remained steady, yet every word carried immense weight. "Kitasan Black's current achievements and reputation have made her the most important face of the Japanese Shining Series, a source of aspiration and confidence for many younger Horse Girls.

"According to model projections, should this image suffer an unexpected blow, it would severely undermine sponsor confidence in at least four new races currently in preparation, as well as sixteen key funding programs across seven regional training academies."

Her gaze swept over Kitasan Black before turning to Anjing Zhen. "This could cause hundreds of promising young Horse Girls to lose precious training resources and paths to advancement.

"So what we are discussing here is not merely the plan of one elite competitor. It also concerns the health of the industry's talent base over the coming years."

She paused, and the question that followed was clear and sharp. "Without reliable risk control measures, insisting on a plan whose chance of success is not one hundred percent, and whose failure could affect the entire ecosystem—is that not irresponsible toward the industry's future and the dreams of so many younger generations?"

Upon hearing all this, before Anjing Zhen could respond, Kitasan Black felt as though her heart had taken a heavy blow.

In an instant, she remembered the path she had walked after never being favored by anyone. She remembered seeing those younger girls at previous events, their eyes shining just like hers had.

She did not understand business, but she understood dreams, training, and racing all too well.

And hearing that these things could be