On the afternoon of April 30, Nevada, Eagle County.
A carnival paradise named "Ruidanshen (Redemption)" stood here. It had once been an underground casino operating in the gray zone, but successfully went legitimate after the Federation was established. It combined all manner of entertainment facilities, a place of endless indulgence and debauchery.
In the basement hall, celebrities and politicians clinked glasses while speaking in riddles; rich heirs and nouveau riche boomed as they talked grandly; alluring young men and beautiful women swayed through the neon lights. The atmosphere was feverish and electric. A gamble that would draw every eye was about to begin.
At exactly two o'clock, the massive screen in the center of the hall, which had been displaying rolling win-loss figures, went black. A deep male voice rang out on cue. "Ladies and gentlemen! The upcoming game is called 'Crazy Blackjack.' We have selected four Players to participate, and all of you may watch the game live through the screen and place bets on their victory or defeat."
When the screen lit up again, it showed a small room with black walls streaked in white. The camera focused on a black round table, its four cardinal points marked with the numbers one through four in chalky white paint. A person sat beside each number.
The man over the speakers spoke enthusiastically. "Our four Players come from different places, but every one of them has appeared on our 'death list.' Only fate can redeem them. Whoever wins this game of Crazy Blackjack will have their name crossed off the death list. Their debts will be wiped clean, and they will receive a certain degree of protection.
"I'm sure you all understand by now that this game differs from the previous ones. What awaits the loser is not an enormous