Ch. 1A Dream That Lasted Thirty Days
Key Plot Points and Events
- Li Yang, a 22-year-old recent graduate, is doing squats and Kegel exercises in his apartment, dreaming of a better future.
- He's feeling the pressure of high housing prices and his limited salary.
- He has a blind date arranged by his mother later that day.
- His roommate and boss, Lin Shiyu, returns home with her ex-husband.
- Li Yang goes to rest, dreaming of a 'World Gate' with a ruined city and zombies.
Character Developments
- Li Yang: Confident in his physical health, but feels the pressure of financial responsibilities. He's looking forward to his blind date and has some inappropriate thoughts about his roommate, Lin Shiyu.
- Lin Shiyu: A fair-skinned, attractive woman who is Li Yang's roommate and boss. She's recently divorced and seems to be reconciling with her ex-husband.
Significant Themes
- The pressure of financial responsibilities and the high cost of living.
- The pursuit of health and self-improvement.
- The complexities of relationships and dating.
Character Interactions
- Li Yang and Lin Shiyu: There's a hint of tension between them, with Li Yang having inappropriate thoughts about her. Lin Shiyu is friendly but professional towards Li Yang.
- Li Yang and Lin Shiyu's ex-husband: Li Yang feels annoyed by Lin Shiyu's ex-husband, who seems to be reconciling with her.