Lunchtime Conversations

Li Xuehua and Mei Dong made their way to their usual table in the bustling school cafeteria. As they approached, they noticed that Shen and Mei Ling were already seated, engaged in conversation. However, there was someone new with them, standing tall and exuding an aura of intrigue. It was Jushi Rong.

Mei Dong, ever the friendly one, introduced Jushi Rong to Shen and Mei Ling. "Shen, Mei Ling, this is Jushi Rong, my best friend from the genius class. Jushi Rong, meet Shen and Mei Ling, Li Xuehua's closest friends."

Mei Ling couldn't help but feel a rush of flustered excitement upon seeing Jushi Rong. His dark and enigmatic presence, combined with his undeniable handsomeness, had an undeniable effect on her. Her cheeks flushed with a hint of pink, making her even more charming in her own right.

Shen, on the other hand, couldn't help but be in awe of the gathering of extraordinary individuals at their table. The combination of Li Xuehua, Mei Dong, and now Jushi Rong's created an undeniable magnetism that drew the attention and admiration of other students in the cafeteria. The whispers and murmurs surrounding their table were a testament to the fascination they invoked.

Mei Ling, regaining her composure, smiled warmly at Jushi Rong. "Nice to meet you, Jushi Rong. Mei Dong has told us so much about you."

Jushi Rong nodded in acknowledgment, his enigmatic gaze meeting Mei Ling's. He was not one for many words, but his presence spoke volumes. It was clear that there was a sense of intrigue surrounding him, captivating the attention of those around him.

Li Xuehua sat opposite Shen and Mei Ling. On her left is Mei Dong and on her right is Jushi Rong. As the group settled into their seats at the cafeteria table, the cheerful chatter turned to plans for the upcoming vacation. Mei Ling and Mei Dong shared their excitement about returning home to their castle, where their parents were eagerly awaiting their arrival. Their father, a marquis, had planned a grand celebration in their honor.

Shen, who hailed from a small village nearby Li Xuehua's hometown, revealed his plan to travel together with Li Xuehua. Their journey would take them along the same path, providing an opportunity to enjoy each other's company during the trip.

Jushi Rong, however, would be staying at the school during the vacation period. He had recently returned from a leave of absence due to conflicts within his assassin guild, and he wished to spend more time focusing on his training and honing his skills.

Their joyful conversation took a sudden turn as they remembered that before embarking on their vacation, they would have to face the final exams. For the masters class, it would be a tournament amongst themselves, testing their combat abilities and techniques. On the other hand, the genius class would have to travel to the city of Qingyun to compete with the students from the prestigious Qingyun School.

Li Xuehua's expression darkened as she recalled her past life, a flash of memories flooding her mind. She remembered the city of Qingyun being under siege by five powerful dragon monsters which includes the Shadow Dragon that killed her. The devastating battle had claimed the lives of many, including many of her classmates from the orphanage. Her eyes welled up with tears, the weight of the past bearing heavily upon her heart.

Mei Dong, ever observant of Li Xuehua's emotions, sensed her distress. Confused by her tears, he discreetly reached under the table and gently held her left hand, offering a silent gesture of comfort and support.

Jushi Rong, his own heart inexplicably aching at the sight of Li Xuehua's tears, found himself compelled to act. Without thinking, he too extended his hand under the table and lightly clasped her right hand, his face blushing at his own audacity.

Feeling the warmth and touch of their hands, Li Xuehua was momentarily embarrassed by the attention she had drawn. She discreetly withdrew her hands and wiped away her tears, determined to regain her composure and focus on the conversation at hand.

Shen and Mei Ling continued sharing their own stories and plans, unaware of the unspoken exchange taking place under the table.