Chapter 12: The Strength of Bonds
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With his newfound strength and determination, Dabi set out each day to hone his skills and level up. He had grown closer to Fen, his baby Fenrir, who had taken an immediate liking to him and often followed him on his hunts. Fen's fur shimmered like silver in the sunlight, and his playful demeanor provided Dabi with a sense of companionship during his solitary adventures.
As Dabi ventured into the Darkwood Forest once again, he felt more confident than ever. His recent battles had sharpened his skills, and with Fen by his side, he was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. They moved through the trees, the sounds of the forest enveloping them, until Dabi spotted a group of Lesser Goblins gathered around a campfire, their crude laughter echoing in the air.
Remembering the lessons he learned from his recent encounters, Dabi activated his Enhanced Quick Analysis skill. Instantly, the goblins' weaknesses flashed in his mind: they were disorganized and easily startled.
With a nod to Fen, Dabi devised a plan. He moved silently, crouching low to the ground, while Fen stealthily maneuvered through the brush, ready to distract the goblins. Dabi counted to three and then sprang into action, charging towards the goblins with Fen barking to draw their attention.
The goblins were caught off guard, their eyes widening in surprise. Dabi swiftly engaged, his sword slicing through the air as he targeted the nearest goblin. With Fen darting around, barking and snapping at their heels, the goblins struggled to regroup.
The battle was chaotic but exhilarating. Dabi's newfound strength allowed him to overpower the goblins with each strike, and Fen's agility proved invaluable, distracting their foes and giving Dabi openings to attack. One by one, the goblins fell, and soon only the leader remained—a burly goblin with a scarred face and a fierce glare.
Dabi faced the leader, feeling the thrill of battle coursing through him. He activated Enhanced Quick Analysis again, quickly assessing the goblin's movements and finding its weaknesses. With renewed vigor, Dabi executed a series of well-timed strikes, dodging the goblin's attacks while landing precise blows.
Finally, with one decisive swing, Dabi defeated the goblin leader, watching as it collapsed to the ground. He felt a surge of victory wash over him.
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System Notification: Mission Complete: Eliminate 5 Lesser Goblins and 1 Goblin Leader. Reward: 500 Gold Coins + Experience Gained.
After collecting the rewards and the loot from the goblins, Dabi took a moment to catch his breath. He felt the familiar energy tingling within him, signaling another level-up.
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System Notification: Level Up! You are now Level 12.
Though he was excited about the progress he had made, he decided to hold off on allocating his stat points until he reached Level 15. His focus was on growing stronger, preparing for the upcoming challenges he knew awaited him in the future.
With Fen by his side, Dabi continued to hunt in the forest, eager to push his limits. They moved deeper into the woods, where the challenges would grow harder, but Dabi felt ready. He could sense the bond between him and Fen strengthening with each adventure they shared.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, Dabi returned home to find Eli and Mira eagerly waiting for him. "How did it go today?" Mira asked, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.
"It was great! I defeated some goblins, and Fen was amazing!" Dabi replied, ruffling Fen's fur affectionately.
Mira looked at Fen and grinned. "I think we should name him Fen! It suits him perfectly!"
Dabi chuckled. "Fen it is!" he agreed, feeling a sense of joy in the moment.
With Fen now a part of their family, Dabi knew that together, they could overcome any obstacle. As they settled in for dinner, he shared stories of his day, his siblings hanging on to every word.
The path ahead was clear in Dabi's mind. He would continue to level up, improve his skills, and ultimately prepare for the national admission and the academy where he could learn even more. With Fen by his side and Eli and Mira's unwa
vering support, Dabi felt invincible.
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