Resolve

The morning sun cast its rays across the Shrek Academy, bringing a new day to life. Mubai entered the eating hall with his usual air of confidence, his eyes scanning the room. His gaze fell upon Maya, Felix, Adrian, and Zhuqing, who were engrossed in a conversation. An unexpected pang of jealousy tugged at his chest as he observed the exchange.

Zhuqing, seated across from Adrian, seemed captivated by the conversation. Adrian's cheerful demeanor and easy banter drew a genuine smile from her—a sight that stung Mubai more than he cared to admit.

Suppressing his unease, Mubai decided to join Hongjun at a nearby table. As he settled into his seat, he couldn't help but glance back at the group with a brooding expression.

"Fatty, are you going out today?" Mubai asked Hongjun while eating his breakfast

"Yes I am thinking of visiting those twins in the city tonight. Something on your mind, Boss Dai?" Hongjun asked.

Mubai sighed, his frustration evident. "Nothing you just stay here tonight. I will go visit those twins today."

Hongjun eyes shone, "Boss Dai, that's not good. I already made plans with them tonight."

Mubai snapped "Doesn't matter. You go somewhere else today". Mubai looked at Zhuqing from the corner of his eyes expecting some kind of jealousy or reaction. To his dismay, she remained engrossed in conversation, seemingly unaffected by his announcement. Mubai could only have his breakfast and leave the dining hall in frustration. Adrian watched all this but didn't comment on it and kept on continuing his conversation with Zhuqing and others.

Later in the day, everybody gathered at the grounds where Rongrong was already standing looking downcast. She was slightly surprised to see the new entry Adrian but was not in a mood to talk about it. Next the events went same as the cannon where Oscar reached level 30 and Flender decided to send them to Star Dou Forest along with Zhao Wuji for helping Oscar obtain his third spirit ring.

Everybody later returned to their room while Maya and Felix were taking a walk around the village while thinking about tomorrow's events.

The moon hung high in the night sky, casting a soft glow over the Shrek Academy grounds. Maya and Felix strolled along a secluded pathway, the gentle breeze carrying whispers of their hushed conversation. They shared a quiet moment, surrounded by the peaceful ambiance of the academy.

As they walked, thoughts of the upcoming journey to the Star Dou Forest weighed on their minds. The forest held the promise of challenges and uncertainties, and Maya and Felix were keenly aware of the potential dangers that awaited them.

"Tomorrow is going to be quite the adventure," Felix mused, glancing at Maya, who nodded in agreement.

Maya's mind raced with the events that lay ahead. "We have to be prepared for anything. The Titan Giant Ape, Blue Sunshine Academy, Meng Yiran and her grandparents."

The night air carried a sense of anticipation, a prelude to the challenges that awaited them. Maya gazed into Felix's eyes, a silent understanding passing between them.

"We'll face whatever comes our way together," Felix assured her, his voice carrying a quiet confidence.

Maya smiled, "Together." Their walk continued, the academy grounds enveloped in a serene atmosphere.

Meanwhile, Adrian lay on his bed in his room, his thoughts consumed by Zhuqing. He couldn't ignore the undeniable attraction he felt towards her and the desire to be more than just friends. Determined to redefine Zhuqing's role beyond being an accessory to Mubai, Adrian envisioned a future where she could shine in her own right.

"Zhuqing deserves to be more than a side character. I'll support her and bring out her true potential and ensure she reaches the heights she's capable of.," Adrian resolved, a determined glint in his eyes.

In a separate room, Zhuqing sat in silent contemplation. Adrian's recent gestures had left an indelible mark on her thoughts. The small talk during their walk back to the academy had warmed her heart, and the smile that had graced her lips lingered in her memory.

Yet, as her mind drifted towards Mubai, her expression hardened. She knew she had no time for distractions. As everybody was immersed in their own thoughts the following day dawned with the promise of challenges. 

The morning sun cast its warm rays upon Shrek Academy as the group gathered for their journey to the Star Dou Forest. There was an unspoken division among them, inadvertently forming two groups. On one side, Maya, Felix, Adrian, and Zhuqing engaged in conversation, their camaraderie evident. Meanwhile, Mubai couldn't conceal his jealousy as he watched Zhuqing interact with Felix and Adrian.

As they set out, the air buzzed with tension. Tang San, Xiao Wu, Rongrong, Oscar, Hongjun, and Mubai formed the other group, each immersed in their thoughts. Tang San contemplated his need to grow stronger, harboring the memory of his previous encounter with Felix in the spirit arena. Xiao Wu shared similar sentiments, remembering her own defeat against Maya.

With the group assembled, Teacher Zhao Wuji turned to face them, his eyes scanning the expectant faces. "Alright, my young Shrek disciples, we need to decide on the formation for our journey into the Star Dou Forest. Any suggestions?"

Mubai, with a calculating glint in his eyes, spoke up first. "I propose a V-shaped formation, with me at the front, of course. It will allow us to maintain a swift pace and keep an eye on each other."

Tang San, Xiao Wu, Rongrong, Oscar, and Hongjun exchanged glances, sensing the ulterior motives behind Mubai's suggestion of being near to Zhuqing. Tang San, voiced his agreement, "Sounds good. Let's go with that."

Mubai smirked triumphantly, satisfied that his plan to be near Zhuqing was falling into place. On the other hand, Maya, Adrian, Zhuqing and Felix exchanged skeptical looks.

Before Zhao Wuji could accept the proposed formation, Felix interjected with a thoughtful expression. "May I suggest an alternative? How about a circular formation? It ensures that we're all protected and allows for quick reactions from any direction. Safety should be our priority."

Adrian nodded in agreement, supporting Felix's idea. "It makes sense. A circular formation provides better coverage, and we can respond swiftly to any unforeseen situations."

Maya chimed in, "I agree with Felix. Safety should come first, especially in a place like the Star Dou Forest."

Zhuqing just nodded, silently expressing his support. Felix's proposal garnered the support of his group. 

Zhao Wuji, keenly observing the dynamics within the group, recognized the underlying tensions. Despite the conflicting preferences, he decided to prioritize strategy and safety. He chose Felix's formation but appointed Mubai as the leader to appease the opposing group. This decision, while maintaining order, only fueled the hidden rivalries within the team.

Zhao Wuji, after assessing both suggestions, decided to prioritize safety and strategy. "We'll go with Felix's circular formation. Mubai as you are the eldest and the strongest amongst the group, I'll appoint you as the leader of this formation. Cooperation is crucial." Mubai's eyes flashed with annoyance, but he nodded in acquiescence. The decision set the tone for the journey, with underlying tensions simmering beneath the surface.

The Shrek Academy party travelled more than 400 kilometers, Zhao Wuji seeing that they would not be able to reach the destination, decided to stay in the small town ahead and soon found a hotel for staying the night.