On the other hand, Kevin was smart enough to learn card counting, and then there were Xixi and Sara—these two had insane card-counting skills. After weighing her options, Red Ghost decided that even if she played, she'd likely lose, so she opted out.

However, when Red Ghost stepped down, Blade Warrior took her place. It turned out that Blade Warrior's card-playing skills weren't just decent—they were exceptional. With Iman occasionally chiming in with strategies and advice, the result was predictable. The ones losing turned out to be Zhang Xiaobo, Xiu Yi, and Kevin.

Kevin's loss was purely due to bad luck, so he didn't end up losing much in the process.

But Xiu Yi and the chubby guy were different. These two buddies somewhat got carried away. As time went by, before even half the day had passed, Blade Warrior had already figured out everyone's playstyle and wound up winning the most money.

At this point, the chubby guy had sunk deeper and deeper into this path of no return, sticking himself in a swamp he couldn't escape from. By the time they reached the Federal capital, this dude had lost everything—all he had left was just enough money to pay for his ride back home, not even a fart to spare.

Luckily, nobody was gambling for real; the stakes were small. Even if they lost everything, it wasn't going to cause any lasting damage. This so-called loss only left a bit of internal dissatisfaction, but upon arrival, everyone was still chatting and laughing, seeming to have already left the misfortune of the card game behind.

——

Eden Capital Airport…

As everyone stepped off the Time-Space Transfer Device, they were faced with a moment of farewell, scattering in different directions. This departure meant they'd each be heading to separate corners of the world, with no clear estimation of when they might meet again. So, Xiu Yi and Zhang Xiaobo exchanged contact information, not necessarily sure if they'd keep in touch later, but for now, they were friends—it didn't hurt to have their numbers in the contact list for the occasional shout-out.

"Xiu Yi, what's your plan for the future?"

"Keep exploring, get stronger, roam various countries," Xiu Yi replied to everyone. He planned to embark on a spontaneous journey, calling it a "world tour" while documenting the highlights along the way. Of course, he wouldn't forget his responsibilities as a bounty hunter during this period—planting his footprints across the globe.

Hearing Xiu Yi's plans, Blade Warrior let out a relieved smile and said, "I believe you'll succeed. So, when are you thinking of starting your adventure?"

"Maybe today."

"Haha, such impatient youngsters, aren't you?"

Amused by Blade Warrior's comment, Xiu Yi lowered his head with a smile and asked, "What about you, Blade Sis and the chubby bro? What are your plans?"

"Me? You know me—my life revolves around research and invention. Unraveling the mysteries of the universe, testing the collisions of truth—I'm not too keen on traveling the world."

"Any new inventions, Blade Sis?"

"No new ones, just improved versions of genetic potions." Blade Warrior explained that her optimized potions could extend the average human lifespan by about seven years beyond the original formula.

She also mentioned her contract with the Federal Government, which mainly revolved around technology. The contract would last for two years, and only after that would she truly regain her freedom.

"What about you, chubby bro?"

Zhang Xiaobo displayed an awkward yet polite smile and said, "I'm just an ordinary guy, what ambitions could I possibly have? Living well beats all else—though you folks out there wandering around must have it tough, battling the elements. When you find time to return, you're welcome to visit my new home."

"Huh? New home?"

"Haha." Zhang Xiaobo burst into laughter and explained to Xiu Yi and the others that he'd recently bought a new home on the coast in a coastal city. The renovations were already complete, and he'd started running a small business there. Although it wasn't making huge money, it was enough to live comfortably. The new venture is a uniquely designed bar—while the space wasn't large, it would absolutely serve friends well and offer great liquor. He'd welcome them at cost price—or better yet, no charge at all, just not too frequently.

Sara pinched him hard, scolding, "You stingy bastard, talking like that to your own folks; it's ridiculous. If you guys come over, then Sara's treat—eat and drink anything, stay as long as you want. All on me!"

She had a point. Even if there was some exaggeration, the sentiment was grand enough that everyone found her words quite enjoyable.

Then the chubby guy added, "What, are we not living the good life here?"

"You think a good life is lacking your miserly funds, huh? Just look at how much you've lost along the journey—more than enough to cover several days of profits!"

That… That hit him right in the soft spot. Without it being mentioned, he'd been okay, but hearing it brought the sting back. Damn, whenever he thought of the money he'd lost, he couldn't help but feel furious. It wasn't the amount that mattered—the money was dead and meaningless, you can't take it with you. But his luck couldn't have been worse—throughout the journey, not even by the time they reached the Federal Capital Planet, had he won even a single penny back. The others, like Xiu Yi and Kevin, had at least recouped a portion of their losses, while he ended up losing his shirt—figuratively and almost literally.

"Haha, no matter what, Earth will always welcome you guys," the chubby guy said to Xiu Yi and the other three crew members.

"Chubby bro, you better improve next time we meet! I, Kevin, bet that I won't lose again. No one understands cards better than I do."

"Bragging! You lost plenty too," Xixi, who had been quiet, immediately poured cold water on Kevin's claim.

"I'm serious, no bragging here."

"Hm, just listen to him bragging," Xixi retorted.

"What? Even you're roasting me, Red Ghost Sis?"

"Of course. Even someone like me, who's never played cards before, could beat you. What hope do you have in the future? Better prepare yourself."

At that moment, the chubby guy froze. Turns out Red Ghost had never played cards like "Fight the Landlord," while even Sara had never tried it before. So wasn't this proof that a regular card player like him still couldn't compete with total newbies? Or perhaps it was pure IQ domination. Either way, he suddenly felt a sort of utter defeat and a sense of humiliation.

"Time's getting late. Let's get ready to part ways here," Blade Warrior finally reminded Zhang Xiaobo and Sara. "But you two lovebirds should drop by and visit me sometimes! It's been half a year without even a phone call—you're being way too antisocial."

Sara paused, a little startled. To be fair, Zhang Xiaobo was in charge of outside matters while she focused on those at home. Meanwhile, the chubby fellow would often disappear without notice. She hadn't expected that over the past six months, she and her old comrade in arms hadn't stayed in touch at all...

"Six months isn't that big of a deal. Back in my military days, I went years without contacting Feng Yi. When we finally reunited, the bond hadn't changed one bit."

"That's totally different! Even Mengdie, who hardly speaks, contacts me often—but you? Tch…" Blade Warrior let out a great sigh.

Her remark left everyone stunned, including Xiu Yi's group—they couldn't believe it. After all, Mengdie was known for never speaking. Zhang Xiaobo asked, "Are you sure you mean that quiet little girl? How do you even communicate with her?"

"Obviously through a chat app. We even talked a few days ago."

"Huh? Talked? About what?"

"Holiday greetings."

Everyone instantly felt embarrassed. Zhang Xiaobo continued, "What did she say then?"

"She sent back a holiday picture card, of course."

Damn! That was it? Everyone wiped off virtual sweat before metaphorically collapsing.

"Alright, let's stop here and go our separate ways. Keep in touch—and Xiu Yi, you guys too. If you ever hit a problem you can't solve out there, don't hesitate to reach out to me." Blade Warrior offered her advice. While she didn't have Feng Yi's capabilities, she could handle small and big situations alike for Xiu Yi and his crew.

"Thank you, Blade Sis. I think with enough effort, I'll be able to overcome everything on my own."

"Spoken like a man with ambition. I'm rooting for you." The chubby guy patted Xiu Yi meaningfully, glancing at the others. Beyond the exchange of brief looks, there was no need for further words.

Everyone shared a knowing smile before turning and heading off in their separate directions...

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