“Variance seven,” Nathan began, voice gaining strength, “is Victoria Group’s current chain tolerance. But variance nine is their internal projected level beginning next quarter.”A wave of silence swept across the room.Nathan continued, “Victoria plans to restructure supplier clusters. Their shift increases volatility buffers automatically. The board hasn’t announced it yet, but their logistics reports already show trial deployments. They will adopt variance nine within three months.”Edward’s eyebrows shot upward. “Impossible. They would’ve declared—”<

Craig Ellington stayed behind his broad desk as Nathan, Aurora, Celine, and Tristan entered the office. His unmoving posture radiated authority, although his expression remained unreadable. Every detail inside the room reflected the stature of a man who managed colossal financial commitments—long panels of glass overlooking the skyline, a carved sculpture of a lion near the corner, and a series of framed certificates lining the far wall. Yet despite the impressive surroundings, Craig’s eyes carried something strained beneath the surface.He watched their approach without offering any form of welcome. Instead, he merely lifted one hand and gestured at the seats arranged before him.“Sit.”His tone held no warmth.They complied silently.Craig already understood the nature of their visit. Two rival conglomerates had arrived to pitch hedging proposals, each attempting to secure a multimillion-dollar contract that would influenc