"If you've been taking other drugs every day to help you along, like they have, and your body's built up a tolerance, then forget I said anything."
Yan Huan spread his hands.
"Today's matches are over, right? I'm going to go have some fun elsewhere."
"Of course, Mr. Executive Officer. I'll get back to training."
Once Luka had walked away, Yan Huan teleported aboard the Star Rail Express.
The train was still parked at Penacony.
Gazing out at the Planet of Festivities, Yan Huan crossed the Parlor Car, entered the corridor, and kicked Dan Heng's door.
"Open up! Community outreach!"
"..."
A moment later, Dan Heng slowly opened the door. The thick stubble on his chin startled even Yan Huan.
"Holy shit! Who are you? What have you done with Dan Heng?!"
"I am Dan Heng."
Looking thoroughly worn down, Dan Heng gave him a dead-eyed stare. After letting Yan Huan in, he quietly returned to his bed, sat down, and calmly opened a book.
"..."
Three full minutes passed without another movement from him.
"Come on, say something."
Yan Huan grew animated.
"The Martial Arts Ceremony has started. Aren't you going to visit your homeworld and show some support?"
"No."
Dan Heng slumped into the corner between his floor mattress and the wall, his eyes gloomy.
"If Luofu isn't in danger, I don't think there's anything I need to do anymore."
"You're not going there to work. You're going to watch the show." Yan Huan gestured with his hands.
"March 7th is competing. As her good teammate, shouldn't you go watch her?"
"There's no need," Dan Heng said listlessly.
"When she wins, she'll post about it. I can see it then."
"That's not the same."
Yan Huan hurried forward and pulled Dan Heng to his feet.
"My friend, you