Wu Xiaolong continued to excel in his studies and training, impressing Master Zhang and his fellow students. His dragon figurine seemed to glow brighter with each passing day, and he could feel its power growing within him.
But as he walked through the academy halls, he couldn't help but notice the subtle glances and whispers from his classmates. They didn't say anything directly to him, but he could sense a hint of envy and resentment in their eyes.
He tried not to let it bother him, but it was difficult. He had always been an outsider, never quite fitting in with his peers. Now, as he became more skilled and powerful, the distance between them seemed to grow even wider.
One day, as he was practicing his martial arts, he heard footsteps behind him. He turned to see Liang approaching.
"Hey, Xiaolong," Liang said, smiling. "You're really starting to make a name for yourself around here."
Wu Xiaolong couldn't help but feel a sense of pride at the compliment. "Thanks, Liang. I'm just trying to do my best."
Liang's smile faded slightly. "Yeah, I know. But some of the others are starting to feel a bit... insecure, I guess you could say."
Wu Xiaolong's heart sank. He had suspected as much, but it still hurt to hear it confirmed.
"What can I do about it?" he asked.
Liang shrugged. "Nothing, really. Just keep doing what you're doing. Show them that you're not trying to outshine them, you're just trying to be the best you can be."
Wu Xiaolong nodded. He knew that Liang was right. He couldn't let the envy and resentment of others hold him back. He had to keep pushing himself to be better, to reach his full potential.
As he continued his training, he felt a renewed sense of determination. He would show his classmates that he wasn't a threat to them, but a rising star that they could all look up to. And with his dragon figurine by his side, he knew that nothing was impossible.
In the days that followed, Wu Xiaolong worked even harder, determined to prove himself to his classmates. He spent long hours in the library, studying ancient texts on demonology and mythology, and practicing his martial arts techniques until his muscles ached.
Despite the growing envy and resentment from his peers, Wu Xiaolong tried to maintain a friendly demeanor, always offering to help anyone who needed it.
One day, as he was walking to class, he heard someone call out his name. He turned to see Wei, one of the more reserved students, running towards him.
"Xiaolong, wait up!" Wei said, panting slightly. "I wanted to ask you something."
Wu Xiaolong smiled, pleased to see that someone was finally reaching out to him. "Sure, what is it?"
Wei hesitated for a moment before speaking. "I... I was wondering if you could help me with my martial arts technique. I've been struggling with it for weeks, and I've seen how skilled you are."
Wu Xiaolong was surprised but also pleased to be asked for help. "Of course, I'd be happy to help. Let's go find a quiet spot to practice."
They found a secluded courtyard and began practicing together. Wu Xiaolong demonstrated the technique, and then coached Wei through it, giving him pointers on how to improve.
As they worked, Wu Xiaolong could sense the envy and resentment from some of the other students, who were watching from a distance. But he ignored it, focusing on helping Wei improve his technique.
After an hour of practice, Wei stood up, beaming with excitement. "I did it! I finally got it right! Thank you so much, Xiaolong!"
Wu Xiaolong smiled, feeling a sense of satisfaction at having helped a fellow student. "You're welcome, Wei. I'm glad I could help."
As he walked back to his dormitory, he felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. He had proven to himself and his classmates that he wasn't just a rising star, but a friendly and helpful one as well. And with each passing day, his dragon figurine glowed brighter, fueling his determination to become the best he could be.
As Wu Xiaolong arrived at his dormitory, he noticed a group of students gathered outside, talking animatedly. As he approached, they fell silent, their eyes flicking nervously to him before looking away.
Wu Xiaolong frowned, feeling a sense of unease. "What's going on? Is everything okay?"
One of the students, a tall and muscular boy named Liang, stepped forward. "We were just talking about the upcoming competition, and how we're all going to work hard to win."
Wu Xiaolong narrowed his eyes, sensing that there was more to the story. "Is that all? It seems like something else is bothering you."
Liang shrugged, trying to appear casual. "Nah, we're just excited about the competition. You're excited too, right?"
Wu Xiaolong nodded, not convinced. "Of course. I plan on working hard to prepare for it. But I can sense that something else is going on. If there's a problem, I'm willing to help."
The group of students shifted uncomfortably, exchanging nervous glances. Finally, Wei stepped forward, his expression apologetic. "I'm sorry, Xiaolong. They're just a little jealous of your skills and your progress. They don't mean any harm, they just need time to adjust."
Wu Xiaolong felt a pang of disappointment but also understanding. He knew that jealousy was a natural human emotion, and that it could be difficult to overcome. "I see. Well, I appreciate your honesty, Wei. And I hope that we can all work together to improve our skills and support each other."
The group of students nodded, looking relieved. Wu Xiaolong smiled, feeling a sense of camaraderie and unity. He knew that he still had a long way to go in his training, but he was glad to have the support of his fellow students.
As he entered his dormitory, he glanced at the dragon figurine on his desk, which seemed to glow even brighter than before. He felt a surge of energy and determination, vowing to continue working hard and striving for greatness.