Cultivation Simulator: Shocking the Academy

Carefree Meng Lan noticed the worry weighing on Luo Chen's mind. She took a deep breath and broke the silence, "Luo Chen, do you have something on your mind? You can talk to us, okay?" Her tone was gentle and caring.

Upon hearing Luo Chen's honest confession, both Carefree Meng Lan and Ling Yueyaya showed expressions of understanding. They knew that this special training was a huge challenge for Luo Chen but also a rare opportunity. Carefree Meng Lan gently patted Luo Chen's shoulder and encouraged him, "Luo Chen, don't worry. We will always be by your side to support and help you through this difficult time."

Ling Yueyaya also nodded in agreement, "That's right, Luo Chen, you must have confidence in yourself. We believe you can do it!" Her voice was sweet and firm, as if it had a magic power that instantly filled people with confidence.

With the encouragement and support of the two lovely ladies, Luo Chen's mood gradually improved. He began to try to savor the food in front of him, to feel its unique texture and flavor. As time passed, the atmosphere among the three of them became more harmonious and joyful. They started to share stories and experiences, their dreams and pursuits. This lunch was not only a culinary journey but also an exchange of minds and emotions.

Watching the comings and goings of customers in the restaurant, Luo Chen simply rested his chin on his hand, his thoughts drifting. His gaze seemed to pierce through the bustling crowd, focusing on some distant point. Sitting directly across from him, Carefree Meng Lan stared at Luo Chen's profile, somewhat dazed. Known for her talkative nature, she now found herself inexplicably silent.

"You two look like a quarreling couple, so distant," Ling Yueyaya said, sitting to Luo Chen's left, facing the restaurant's glass window. The sunlight cast a unique softness on her face.

Hearing Ling Yueyaya's teasing, Luo Chen and Carefree Meng Lan didn't laugh like usual, instead falling into even deeper silence. This odd quietness also made Ling Yueyaya feel a bit awkward, and she giggled, trying to lighten the mood, but there was a hint of helplessness in her voice, "Sigh, you guys are really no fun."

However, just at that moment, an astonishing light sparkled in Luo Chen's previously calm eyes, as if he had seen something surprising.

"Zhao Dongfang!" he exclaimed softly.

This name was like a stone thrown into a still lake, instantly causing ripples among the three. Carefree Meng Lan and Ling Yueyaya simultaneously looked in the direction Luo Chen was indicating, only to see a handsome young man entering the restaurant. His appearance caused both of them to furrow their brows slightly.

"Luo Chen, isn't he the person who was with you that day?" Carefree Meng Lan asked curiously.

Luo Chen nodded but continued to fix his gaze on the young man in a black tailcoat. His mind was filled with confusion and bewilderment. When did Zhao Dongfang, from the East, become so Westernized? Moreover, hadn't he already obtained the Heavenly Dragon Manual and disappeared? Why was he appearing here, in the restaurant of the Golden Soul Coin Shili Inn?

Zhao Dongfang seemed unaware of Luo Chen and the others' gaze. With an extremely gentlemanly demeanor, he walked towards the restaurant's reception desk.

"Hi, beautiful lady," Zhao Dongfang smiled and said to the young receptionist, "Could you help me? I have an appointment with someone."

His voice was calm and magnetic, immediately capturing the attention of those around. Luo Chen and the others watched this scene with curiosity, wondering what Zhao Dongfang would do next.

The receptionist was clearly charmed by Zhao Dongfang's demeanor and charisma. A blush rose on her cheeks as she softly asked, "Sir, may I know your name? I'll check for you."

"My surname is Zhao, Zhao Dongfang." Zhao Dongfang smiled as he replied.

Upon hearing this name, the receptionist paused slightly, seemingly recognizing it. She quickly glanced through the records, then looked up at Zhao Dongfang, "Mr. Zhao, your friend is already waiting for you. Please follow me."

Luo Chen nodded again, his confusion growing stronger. Zhao Dongfang's familiarity with this place was like someone who had worked there. However, now was not the time for questions. He quietly followed Zhao Dongfang, slipping into the kitchen unnoticed.

The kitchen was brightly lit, with chefs and assistants all busily engaged. They were so focused on their tasks that they failed to notice two agile figures sneaking to the emergency stairwell.

They encountered no obstacles as they reached the second floor of the Drunken Dream Garden, where Zhao Dongfang suddenly stopped. Luo Chen couldn't help but ask in confusion, "Why not continue up? Based on status, Xiao Ruoyu should be on the third floor, right?"

Zhao Dongfang shook his head, "There are experts guarding the third floor. If we rush up, we'll definitely get caught. Forget meeting Xiao Ruoyu; we might not even be able to save our own lives."

He pointed to the large balcony outside the hall of the second floor, "Let's wait outside the balcony for an opportunity. We'll go up when the guards are less vigilant."