After playing around for a while, Rimo and Chrollo suddenly stood up in tacit understanding. Seeing this, the others also rose.
"Then let's say goodbye for the time being. I hope that when we meet again, everyone can achieve all kinds of satisfying results."
Rimo finally looked around at everyone in the Phantom Brigade. No one displayed sadness at the separation; their eyes were full of determination. Although only ten or twenty days had passed since the brigade's formation, Rimo could clearly feel that each member had developed a strong sense of belonging.
Especially after leaving Meteor Street. For those who came from Meteor Street, the brigade was more than a team—it was home. A commonality of the street's people: abandoned by the world, with no family to rely on, their "family" became the team they belonged to.
In a place like Meteor Street, where survival often depended on exploiting others, complete trust could only exist among team members. Humans are social animals after all, and the [hearts] of each individual could influence one another. The brigade's positive energy circulated through these bonds. Uvogin's sense of belonging naturally affected Rimo, and vice versa.
"Hahaha, deputy head! Don't go easy on me—I might be stronger than you by the next time we meet!" Uvogin grinned, extending a fist toward Rimo.
"Oh, Uvogin, how dare you say that? Then we agree to settle it next time we meet, alright?" A dangerous gleam flashed in Rimo's eyes as he collided fists with Uvogin.
Of course, such challenges were allowed within the brigade. The strictness of someone like Hisoka in the original series was unique—Hisoka's perverted, murderous aura meant he had no intention of mutual training. In contrast, Rimo encouraged it.
"Hahaha, okay, deputy commander. Next time I'll break your defense, at least enough to touch you!" Uvogin's eyes sparkled with fighting spirit.
Breaking the defense of [Unlimited Spell]? Rimo could already imagine Uvogin sprawled on the ground, gasping under low air pressure. He didn't want to crush the boy's confidence and patted him on the shoulder: "Uh… then come on."
Then Rimo looked at Feitan, Nobunaga, and Franklin. Their eyes, when meeting his, were also filled with fighting spirit. Could it be that they shared the same delusions as Uvogin? In that case, Rimo could only cheer them on silently.
"Machi," Rimo finally turned his gaze.
"What?"
Machi glanced at him.
"First of all, let me explain—I'm being a bit more serious about bringing children along…"
Halfway through her words, Rimo gently rested his hand on her head, smiling softly. "Be careful," he teased internally.
Although Rimo had special feelings for Machi, he had never intended to tie her to his side. Machi bound to him would cease to be herself; she would become a mere placeholder. Fortunately, Machi and Uvogin were traveling together, which reassured Rimo. At least their safety could be reasonably guaranteed—as long as they avoided current masters.
Machi could also guide Uvogin to Sky Arena; otherwise, Rimo would doubt whether Uvogin could manage alone.
The brigade's separation prompted Rimo to focus on his own development. After they left, he intended to research Nen. Based on his experience with [Bombing Space], the characteristics of the next ability suggested it wouldn't be overly difficult.
Seeing Rimo with no intention of persuading her to stay, Machi didn't feel unhappy; instead, she laughed. "I see."
This time, she didn't pat Rimo's messy hand as usual.
Everyone in the brigade exchanged smiles and then departed toward their respective goals. Watching their backs, Rimo sensed separation but felt no sadness. Instead, he was filled with determination, as if a dragon were plunging into the sea.
"Okay, time for me to handle my own matters," Rimo murmured, turning toward the villa's depths. He still had much to do: train Nion, develop Nen, fully integrate the Nothra family, and advance his [Complete Mimicry] ability, which he had delayed.
Over the next few days, Rimo discussed plans with Wright Nosla to develop the Nosla family into a subordinate organization for the Phantom Brigade—able to handle whatever the brigade requested. In return, the brigade would provide military support, the extent depending on Rimo's mood.
It was an unequal treaty in appearance, yet Wright Nosla eagerly accepted it. He was ecstatic, almost kneeling and shouting in gratitude. The Fanobi family—the behemoth in his eyes—had been wiped out in an afternoon by Rimo and his team. With this kind of support, Wright Nosla envisioned dominating the apex of the underworld. It was like holding only 1% of a company after financing, yet that 1% was worth more than the entire pre-financing company.
As for the collaboration with the Nosla family, Rimo later informed the rest of the brigade via phone. Their movements could proceed independently, but with official cooperation in place, Rimo discovered Nosla's current weakness. There was no one capable of fighting under his hand—Quan Te was full of "talents" who only ate, drank, prostituted, gambled, and indulged in the five poisons. Only Bart displayed some discernment, explaining why he had risked going to Meteor Street to recruit.
If it weren't for Nion's presence and Wright Nosla's exceptional flattery skills, Rimo would have considered switching to another organization to avoid dealing with Nosla.
After careful thought, Rimo decided to guide Bart's mindset. For now, it was sufficient to manage the situation. Once he helped Bart open his mind, Rimo left him to study materials on mindfulness and practice freely.
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