CHAPTER 408: CHAPTER 261 HOPE IS A TERRIBLE THING

The group hesitated momentarily and looked towards Triangular Eyes, waiting for his decision. Triangular Eyes caught a glimpse of Ling Yueyaya’s slightly flushed and sweaty charming face, which looked particularly enchanting in the afterglow of the sunset. Although he felt a bit uneasy, he couldn’t bear to refuse this benefactor who had saved their lives, so he silently nodded, agreeing to take a rest.

Everyone immediately dispersed, each finding a place to rest under the few solitary trees. Luo Chen chose a relatively sturdy tree, leaning against its trunk, crossing his arms, and scanning the surroundings with a solemn gaze. Although this forest seemed peaceful, he always felt there was something unusual lingering in the air.

At this moment, Ling Yueyaya suddenly peeked out from behind a tree with a playful smile on her face, handing him a piece of thin pastry. "Here you go." She blinked her bright eyes, showing a friendly sparkle.

Luo Chen accepted the thin pastry but didn’t immediately start eating. He looked at Ling Yueyaya with a puzzled expression and asked, "Why aren’t you coming with us?" He always felt there was a subtle distance between Ling Yueyaya and the group.

Ling Yueyaya heard this and smiled playfully, explaining, "No way, I just want to be the trailblazer! Besides, I’ve just advanced so many levels, and I’m eager to see how strong I am now." Her tone was light and joyful, as if she didn’t consider this adventure a big deal.

Luo Chen frowned slightly and sighed inwardly. He felt that Ling Yueyaya’s change might have something to do with what her sister said earlier. "Is it your sister’s words that made you like this?" he couldn’t help but ask again.

"Of course not, stop worrying needlessly." Ling Yueyaya rolled her eyes and pouted, pretending to be angry. Suddenly, she reached out as if to pinch Luo Chen’s cheek, but for some reason, her hand stopped halfway in the air.

For a brief moment, Ling Yueyaya’s eyes became a bit confused, as if lost in some memory or thought. But quickly, she covered up her emotions and explained with a smile, "Oh, I’m just like that. I can’t help wanting to take a little advantage when I see a handsome boy, hehe~" After saying this, she quickly withdrew her head, disappearing from Luo Chen’s sight with a playful leap.

Luo Chen held the thin pastry but kept his gaze on that gradually retreating figure, feeling a soft touch somewhere in his heart. Not until the figure completely vanished from his sight did he slowly withdraw his gaze, although his thoughts remained adrift. The aroma of the pastry lingered at his nose, yet he seemed to forget tasting it.

After an unknown amount of time, a panic-stricken shout cut through the tranquility: "Brother Luo Chen, where are you?" The voice was filled with deep anxiety and unease. Luo Chen snapped out of a daze; the voice came from Triangular Eyes—Brother Golden Soul Coins.

Luo Chen was like struck by lightning, instantly becoming alert. He quickly jumped out from behind the tree, waving his hand and shouting in response, "I’m over here, what’s wrong?" His voice carried a hint of tension and concern.

Brother Golden Soul Coins appeared alarmed and confused. But upon seeing Luo Chen, his expression calmed slightly. Standing still, he shouted with a trembling voice, "My brother is missing, hurry over to gather, I’m worried something happened to him!"

Luo Chen was taken aback, ignoring the pastry in his hand, and hurriedly ran towards Brother Golden Soul Coins. On the way, he noticed Carefree Meng Lan and others also emerged from behind the trees, clearly having heard Brother Golden Soul Coins’ shout. Luo Chen didn’t even realize that Carefree Meng Lan had changed into a different outfit, her face equally filled with concern.

"What’s happened, Brother Golden Soul Coins?" Carefree Meng Lan asked urgently, her tone full of concern.

Brother Golden Soul Coins, a descendant of a declining ancient family from Mengyifei City, appeared extremely anxious and regretful at this moment. Clenching his fists, he spoke with a face full of remorse, "My youngest, Cat Cat Golden Soul Coins Xibi, is missing! He was just here a moment ago, went for a quick break, and then disappeared without a trace!"

Everyone’s expression changed upon hearing this, showing their worry. Brother Golden Soul Coins was deeply remorseful: "I should have gone with him; this wouldn’t have happened. Damn it, if something happens to him, how will I explain to my father and the elders of the clan when I return!"