Kitasan Black froze for a moment and looked up at T.M. Opera O.
A profound curve lifted at the corner of T.M. Opera O's lips.
"The glory of four consecutive victories, that shocking performance on the track just now, and this 'showdown' with me...
"What do you think they will bring?"
Without waiting for Kitasan Black's answer, she continued on her own, her voice carrying the steadiness of someone who had been through it before.
"The answer is simple—universal attention.
"From now on, every race you run, every training session, even every expression you make, will be magnified and interpreted by countless eyes.
"Flowers and applause will come rolling in like the tide, but at the same time, the weight of expectations and scrutinizing gazes will follow you like a shadow.
"This is the fate that every strong individual must bear."
T.M. Opera O's tone suddenly grew heavier, as though emphasizing a crucial note.
"The more dazzling you are, the higher you stand, the heavier that pressure will become.
"It will turn into invisible shackles, trying to bind your steps.
"When you make even the slightest mistake, it will turn into sharp criticism, trying to crush your will.
"Do you understand?"
Kitasan Black's breathing hitched slightly.
It was not as though she failed to understand T.M. Opera O's words. In fact, perhaps she had already gradually realized, long ago, everything that fame and attention brought with them.
When she had gone to Izu with Almond Eye and Mikki Rocket, her seniors had reminded her to disguise herself...
When her identity had accidentally been exposed at the station, and the fans had suddenly erupted in excitement...
The unexpected interview from a reporter named Otoya Shiyuezi...
The buzz stirred up by this race...
All of it flashed through her mind in an